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.
