This course will focus on how the current era of globalization shapes the political economy of the Andean region of Latin America with a particular emphasis on the effect of neoliberal policies and the proliferation of new social movements. Based for four weeks in Quito, Ecuador, students will be placed in volunteer internships with non-governmental organizations that work on issues such as indigenous rights, indigenous education, environmental issues, and emigration to the United States and Spain. Reading and writing assignments will be supplemented by lectures by Ecuadorian academics on various facets of globalization and visits to local community organizations. Students will live with families and participate in course field trips to various regions of the country. During the final two weeks of the course, students will travel to La Paz and Cochabamba, Bolivia and meet with community organizations, academics, and government representatives engaged in issues such as privatization of water, nationalization of hydrocarbons, coca production and e radication efforts, indigenous activism, and efforts to expand free trade in the region. May meet either the Critical Perspectives: Global Cultures or Social Inequality requirement. (Summer only 2024-25).

Prerequisite: Spanish 201 or equivalent. Program Fee: $3,500. Taught in Quito, Ecuador.

2 units

No offerings are currently scheduled.