Bolivian Workers' Center

The Central Obrera Boliviana (COB ) is the umbrella organization of the Bolivian trade unions. It was founded in 1952 after the Movimiento Nacionalista Revolucionario had come through a revolution to power. The strongest member of the group COB was the Federación de Trabajadores Mineros de Bolivia Sindical FSTMB (German Trade Union of Bolivian miners ), which had in 1946 adopted the " Pulacayo Theses " a revolutionary Trotskyist inspired and on trade union issues beyond walking program. From 1952 to 1987, the COB was led by Juan Juan Lechín Oquendo, who was chief of the FSTMB simultaneously.

The COB is traditionally rebellious and conflict- happy and had a difficult relationship with all Bolivian president since the 1950s. Recently, she played an important role during the demonstrations, President Carlos Mesa rushed out of office in 2005. The COB currently supports the nationalization of the gas production in 2000 and fought against the privatization of drinking water company in Cochabamba.

The trade union federation representing some 2 million Bolivian workers from various industries and the public service and is in close contact with the leaders of the indigenous population, such as Felipe Quispe Huanca.

The current Secretary of the COB is Jaime Solares, a revolutionary socialist who also does not have a very good relationship with Evo Morales, the Bolivian president.