In an unusual diplomatic move, Methodist Bishop Eugenio Poma, an indigenous Aymara Indian from Bolivia, has become his country's ambassador to Denmark. Poma also used to work for the World Council of Churches.

A Bolivian NGO backed by church and other development groups has almost totally eradicated death-in-childbirth and significantly diminished infant mortality in one of the poorest regions of the country.

A Bolivian NGO backed by church and other development groups has almost totally eradicated death-in-childbirth and significantly diminished infant mortality in one of the poorest regions of the country.

The overwhelming victory of Evo Morales, the radical indigenous leader, in Bolivia's recent presidential election has been warmly welcomed by partners of Christian Aid, the UK-based international development agency supported by many of Britain's leading denominations.

A popular coalition built around indigenous Indians, power workers, peasants and civil movements - including trade unions and radical Catholics - has erupted against years of poverty and inequality in one of Latin America's poorest countries.