Bolivian Indians in historic step

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Bolivia has become the first country in the history of South America to declare the right of indigenous people to govern themselves.

The country's first indigenous president, Evo Morales, launched his so-called "indigenous autonomy" policy in the eastern lowlands.

Peasant and indigenous communities will be entitled to vote for more autonomy in referendums next December.

The provisions are contained in a constitution passed earlier this year.