How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

Periods of instability often compel companies to make business decisions that would not typically be considered under normal market conditions. In such scenarios, a deep understanding of the business reality is essential for effective legal counsel. This is best achieved through close involvement with the various corporate governance bodies, combined with a clear and comprehensive view of the prevailing economic, political, and regulatory context in the country. These elements are fundamental to providing precise and holistic legal advice, while also mitigating potential legal risks arising from institutional decisions.

In this regard, having an appropriate legal strategy must go hand in hand with the organisation’s broader strategic and institutional plans, which may be subject to frequent changes due to the demands of the current environment. Flexibility, therefore, becomes a key component of legal decision-making, balancing institutional needs on one hand, while maintaining the necessary legal framework on the other.

What are the main cases or transactions that you have been involved in recently?

Due to the economic crisis in our country—driven by various factors—and a changing regulatory framework issued by Bolivia’s financial regulatory authority (ASFI), which in many cases favors clients, the financial products offered by Pro Mujer IFD have undergone significant changes and adaptations to align with market realities and client’s repayment capacities. This is particularly relevant in the microfinance sector, where Pro Mujer operates.

This situation has posed a legal challenge, requiring the adjustment of both contracts and internal regulations to meet client needs, while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards which do not always reflect the specific dynamics of the microcredit market. Therefore the greatest challenge has been defending these decisions from a legal standpoint during inspections conducted by the regulatory authority.

How do you prioritise diversity and inclusion within your legal department, and what initiatives have you implemented to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment?

Since Pro Mujer is an institution focused on gender-related issues, this commitment is also reflected internally in its human resource practices. Specifically, within the legal department, all members, except myself, are women. This composition highlights the organisation’s dedication to its Vision and Mission and represents a voluntary effort to address gender disparities that remain prevalent in our society.

Furthermore, equal opportunities and a supportive work environment are actively promoted among team members, fostering their professional development in an inclusive and equitable setting