The advance of the far right in the European elections not only resonates in the region but may also become a driving force for the radicalization of the traditional right in Latin America.
Charismatic leaders tend to surpass their governments and become engines of political projects, while those who assume power by legal means face the challenge of creating an aura of their own.
Populist authoritarian leaders seek to undermine the control mechanisms that limit their ability to accumulate power. Whether in presidential or parliamentary systems, their behavior resembles more that of absolute monarchs than that of democratically elected leaders.
Religion has become an instrument to reconquer voters' faith, merging with populism to sanctify politics and transform the relationship between citizens and leaders.
Democratic erosion is not limited to the emergence of populist leaders, declining voter turnout and support for authoritarian figures. In several Latin American countries, the growing influence of the military over civilian power is increasingly observed.
Several governments have used the human rights argument to open the door to indefinite reelection. But these are mainly personalistic and authoritarian leaders where the checks and balances of the democratic system have been captured or eroded.
2024 will be a defining year for democracy in the region. El Salvador, Panama, Dominican Republic, Peru, Mexico and Uruguay will elect a new president and will be responsible for shaping the political trend in Latin America.
