Has Election Observation Evolved for the Better?
The downgrading of electoral expectations and standards reflects the changing nature of elected autocratic regimes.
To participate or not to participate: The Venezuelan opposition’s Hamlet moment
Once again Venezuela’s democratic opposition finds itself in an electoral dilemma. This time, though, it’s not (entirely) of their own doing. The moral weight of whether and how to participate in the November 21 regional and local elections hangs more on the European Union.
The economics of populism is failing in Latin America
The spectre of populism – both of the left and right variety – has hung over Latin American politics and economics since the 19th century but, for the last two decades, a new wave of populist movements and leaders has developed as a result of ongoing economic dislocation and popular anger at the political class.
Opinion: The pandemic has shown that workers in the informal economy need a safety net, too
Developing Social Insurance Schemes for Informal and ‘Gig’ Workers
This briefing, which is published under the Global Economy and Finance Programme’s ‘Rebuilding International Economic Cooperation’ project, highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic is exacerbating economic and social insecurity for more than 2 billion people employed in the informal sector, and adding to global inequality. A radical rethink of the nature of work and social insurance is needed.
The Far-Left Wins Back Power in Bolivia. What Does That Mean for the Country’s Future?
Luis Arce claimed an early victory in the Bolivian presidential election on October 18. His rise to the presidency also means a return to MAS party leadership, raising questions of what another left-wing political era could mean for the country.
Democracy Delayed: COVID-19’s Effect on Latin America’s Politics
Democracy is often depicted as a means to peacefully resolve political conflict and socioeconomic discontent. But what happens when that essential safety valve of elections has been closed off?
Latin America’s COVID-19 Moment: Differences and Solidarity
There has been no better example of the political diversity in Latin America than the varying responses of governments to the coronavirus crisis.
The Wisdom of Tying COVID-19 Humanitarian Assistance to Policy Objectives in Venezuela
The silence of the European and Latin American heads of state given the US’s plan in Venezuela raises questions about true international support in the new twist in a 14 month saga.
Challenges to international human rights
Not only are democracy and freedom in the world declining, the willingness of liberal democracies to defend the norms and institutions that support them is also fraying. To what extent does that reflect popular opinion?