In the face of pandemic-related hardships and controversies, electoral results in Peru and Ecuador act as a litmus test for regional politics.
South America articles on Democracy Chronicles
News about the struggle for better democracy across North and South America (not including the United States) in this highly diverse and quickly changing region. Also see our World Democracy section or our articles on Central America or on giants Brazil and Mexico.
Latin America’s Surprisingly Resilient Democracies
Latin America is now more often seen as a cautionary tale, a blinking red light warning us about the fragility of new democratic institutions.
Colombian Journalist Convicted After Exposing Corruption
Colombia’s Supreme Court has upheld a defamation conviction against journalist Vicky Dávila Hoyos and the media outlet RCN.
Chilean Senate To Vote On Postponing Upcoming Elections
On Easter Sunday, April 4, Chile’s Senate will hold special session to vote on reform that will postpone upcoming general elections.
Pelé’ Documentary Kicks Up Questions On Democracy In Brazil
A recent Netflix documentary examines football legend Pelé’s rise to fame but fails to address deeper questions of race and class.
How Latin American Politicians Use The Courts To Gain Power
In Latin America, supporters of ousted leaders and leaders facing court charges often see a witch-hunt. This is not always far from the truth
Can Lula’s Return Save Brazilian Democracy?
Lula da Silva’s return means that there is actually some hope for democracy and social justice in Brazil, despite the tide of reaction.
Young Bolivian Women Are Taking Reins In Politics
Bolivia’s national regulations adopt political parity, but this does not address challenges that women face in order to participate in politics.
Brazilian Democracy Is Holding Up But the Biggest Test is 2022
Despite the deteriorating political climate in Brazil since President Jair Bolsonaro’s election, democracy has survived and thrived.
Study: Human Rights Laws Are Best Way To Protect The Amazon
The Amazon is the world’s most important ecosystem. Among the different strategies adopted to save it human rights laws are crucial.