Eye Exams in Palmasola: Project Report from Bolivia's Largest Prison City
Palmasola is located about 10 kilometers south of the city center of Santa Cruz de la Sierra in Bolivia. The facility is considered a “prison city”: Behind its walls, a distinct daily life exists with its own internal structures and a clear separation of areas (including men’s and women’s sections, as well as high-security areas). Many people wait, sometimes for a long time, for their court proceedings.
In this unique environment, our Bolivian project partner Lentes al Instante/GoodVision Bolivia carried out an eye care campaign. The goal was to provide vision screenings for people living in prison and to supply them with glasses as needed.
Palmasola: A Place with Its Own Rules
Paths wind through narrow, heavily trafficked alleys—a sign that certain areas were designed for significantly fewer people.
At the same time, Palmasola is a parallel world with an informal infrastructure: In certain areas, there are workshops, small shops, and other services—though not equally available to everyone. Social inequality is evident even within the walls.
Inside, order is not maintained in all areas by traditional security personnel. Instead, there are internal structures in place to guide visitors and regulate procedures.
Paths wind through narrow, heavily trafficked alleys—a sign that certain areas were designed for significantly fewer people.
At the same time, Palmasola is a parallel world with an informal infrastructure: In certain areas, there are workshops, small shops, and other services—though not equally available to everyone. Social inequality is evident even within the walls.
Inside, order is not maintained in all areas by traditional security personnel. Instead, there are internal structures in place to guide visitors and regulate procedures.
Paths wind through narrow, heavily trafficked alleys—a sign that certain areas were designed for significantly fewer people.
The Eye Campaign: Vision Tests Under Special Conditions
Access is via several checkpoints. On site, the vision tests are conducted in a separate area. Numerous people are already waiting before the event even begins. As with other campaigns, the team works quickly and in an organized manner.
Results of the day: The team examines more than 100 people and distributes some pairs of glasses. Many of the men examined are older and primarily needed reading glasses. The glasses are provided free of charge as part of the campaign.
Harold (51) learned carpentry in prison. As part of the campaign, he is receiving a pair of glasses. This will allow him to do his work more precisely and safely—a practical benefit that is immediately noticeable in everyday life.
I've seen quite a few bleak places around the world where hopelessness reigns—the prison city of Palmasola in Bolivia is one of them.
