Women played a fundamental role in Cochabamba's Water War, a citizen response to the attempt of privatising drinking water services in Bolivia. In the protests of 2000, women from irrigation organisations defended their right to water, the right of the community to use water, their recognition as those responsible for acquiring water, and their acceptance as leaders. They made demands for greater participation, recognition and decision-making power. Pressures of water privatisation affected urban and rural Bolivia, inviting nation-wide solidarity with the struggle of the men and women of Cochabamba. This led to the Bolivian government breaking its contract with Aguas del Tunari, who had taken over water services delivery, increased water rates at the expense of universal water access, and affected rights of access for indigenous communities.