The challenges of Latin American democracy: Coexistence, inclusion, and diversity

Abstract

This special issue of Latin American Policy features selected academic articles from our First Latin American Congress on Social Sciences and Government, sponsored by three of the most prestigious universities in Latin America Universidad Católica de Chile; Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia; and Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico. The congress, focused on The Challenges of Latin American Democracy: Coexistence, Inclusion, and Diversity, gathered more than 50 scholars who shared their insight on events that have shaped democracy in our region and on the emerging challenges to the democratic consolidation of our institutions.

Our conclusions highlight the need for new forms of coexistence and dialog among political actors and underscore the importance of recognizing the diversity that defines our society. We also believe our political systems must enhance representation and find ways to ensure inclusion in political life for all social groups.

The 8 articles explore a wide range of themes from the unique perspectives of their authors, inviting us to reexamine the concept of democracy in Latin America and the challenges to achieving prosperous governments and societies.

This article reflects on the importance of intersectionality in strengthening democracy, especially in contexts like the Mexican one. The central idea is that for democracy to be truly inclusive, affirmative action must not only focus on the political participation of women but also address the needs of other historically marginalized groups, particularly those in vulnerable situations.

Intersectionality, which originated in Afro-descendant feminism, reminds us that experiences of discrimination are not one-dimensional. People can face multiple, interconnected forms of oppression, which highlights the need for a more pluralistic and comprehensive approach to public policy design. This perspective not only enriches democracy but also allows previously excluded voices to be heard and considered in decision-making processes.

The article highlights how affirmative action in Mexico has evolved from a women-centered approach to a broader inclusion that encompasses various vulnerable communities, a significant step toward a more representative and unbiased democracy.

This study indicates a need to rethink how we understand and apply democracy. By integrating intersectionality into affirmative actions, greater equity is promoted, and the social fabric is strengthened by empowering all citizens to participate actively in building a more inclusive future, regardless of identity or situation.

Carlos Cerda Dueñas invites us to examine the interconnection between democracy and the rule of law as fundamental concepts that ensure social justice. The idea that democracy and the rule of law are intrinsically linked emphasizes the importance of strong and fair institutions that guarantee rights for all citizens. The establishment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16, which focuses on peace and strong institutions, represents a significant step toward promoting peaceful and inclusive societies. Yet, this goal has encountered challenges in both its formulation and implementation. The difficulty in communicating and achieving SDG 16 necessitates an evaluation of the political and social complexities surrounding justice and the rule of law. The focus on access to justice, as emphasized in this goal, is crucial, as it is not only a fundamental right but also essential for development and the protection of human rights.

Furthermore, current global challenges, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and international conflicts, threaten the objectives set out in the 2030 Agenda. A statement from the United Nations Secretary-General resonates strongly, reminding us that the aspirations for sustainable development are at risk and that coordinated and effective action is essential to overcome these challenges. This text encourages us to recognize the importance of strengthening the rule of law and ensuring access to justice as essential pillars of a healthy democracy and sustainable development. Political will and collaboration among nations are vital to advancing these goals and building a fairer, more equitable future for all.

The author effectively highlights the urgent need for more rigorous monitoring in the implementation of human rights recommendations in Mexico, especially regarding the National Guard and security institutions. It is evident that the current situation presents significant challenges as the militarization of public security has raised concerns about respect for human rights. The recommendation from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights to withdraw the armed forces gradually from these tasks and to strengthen civilian police is a crucial step toward restoring trust in security institutions. Meanwhile, the fact that these recommendations are still pending compliance indicates a lack of progress that could have serious consequences for the population.

Additionally, the text mentions specific cases of human rights violations that underscore the urgency of addressing these issues. The forced disappearance of 43 young people in Guerrero is a painful reminder of the need for accountability and a more humane approach to public security.

In summary, the implementation of a special monitoring mechanism is not only necessary but could also serve as a bridge toward greater effectiveness in the protection of human rights. It is essential that these recommendations are taken seriously and that decisive action is taken to ensure security institutions operate within a framework that prioritizes the dignity and rights of all individuals. Building a safer and fairer future for everyone depends on it.

Juan Carlos Montero presents an insightful perspective on how a state not initially perceived as a hotspot for violence linked to organized crime has had to adapt and respond to significant challenges. It is noted that, despite being a financial center for criminal organizations, the region managed to remain largely peaceful, interrupted only by sporadic violent events. The transformation of security policy in Nuevo León, driven by the crisis with violence between 2006 and 2011, underscores the importance of civil society participation in creating new police institutions. This collaborative approach not only enabled a more effective response to violence but also introduced previously unconsidered perspectives. It serves as a reminder that innovation in public policy can emerge from collaboration between the government and the community, leading to more comprehensive solutions tailored to local realities.

Moreover, the state government's investment in resources and improvements for the police demonstrates a proactive commitment to addressing the crisis. The creation of a new police model based on social participation and the restructuring of the network of involved actors exemplifies how significant changes can be implemented in response to crises. The final reflection is that although violence and organized crime are complex issues, collaboration and innovation in security policies can provide pathways to more effective solutions. The experience of Nuevo León could serve as a model for other states in Mexico and around the world facing similar challenges. The key lies in recognizing the importance of diverse actor participation and being willing to adapt strategies to meet society's evolving needs.

This article presents an insightful analysis of the importance of argumentation in the context of the Revocation of Mandate promoted by Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO). By examining the opinions of editorialists from the newspaper El Norte, it explores how ideological positions influence the quality and credibility of the arguments presented. Two weeks before the process, the newspaper's executives posed the question “To participate or not?” to the editorialists. The exercise provides an opportunity to analyze the quality and credibility of the arguments shaped by the editorialists’ ideological stances. The classification of responses into three groups reveals a diversity of opinions, which is fundamental to democratic debate. Here, the central takeaway is the importance of evaluating the strength of these arguments. Toulmin's (in Toulmin, et al. 1984) theory offers a useful framework for understanding how arguments are constructed and what elements are necessary for them to be effective.

This analysis not only encourages further deliberation on the opinions surrounding AMLO's revocation of mandate but also reminds us of the importance of arguing responsibly and building on solid foundations, especially on issues that are so pertinent to society.

In this article, Daniela González thoroughly examines the evolution of international human rights mechanisms since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. Despite criticisms of their effectiveness, these mechanisms have created spaces for collaboration between states and civil society actors, which is essential to advance human rights. The focus on Mexico and the Committee on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (CMW Committee) is particularly relevant. As a “migration country,” Mexico offers a unique context to analyze how international mechanisms relate to the reality of emigrants. The shift toward a more open foreign policy on human rights is a positive development, but contradictions persist. The idea that civil society can play a crucial role by providing alternative information and amplifying the actions of the Committee is encouraging. It suggests that despite the lack of international consensus on migration governance, opportunities exist for civil society actors to influence the protection of migrants’ rights.

The article invites reflection on how new challenges in the field of migration can be addressed through collaboration and information exchange. The interaction between civil society and international mechanisms can serve as a window of opportunity to advance the defense of human rights, even amid global disagreement.

Fabiola Cortez-Monroy Muñoz and her coauthors emphasize the importance of strengthening health policy in primary care services in Chile. The authors argue that mental disorders in Chile represent not only a health issue but also a social challenge that affects a large part of the population. It is alarming that some respondents show symptoms of mental health problems, with women being the most affected. This situation underscores the urgent need to improve access to mental health services, especially considering that nearly 39% of those who felt the need to seek help could not do so due to a lack of appointments or time.

The situation is even more critical for children and adolescents, who face significant barriers related to infrastructure and quality of care. The inequity in health coverage between the public and private systems is a pressing issue as it limits access to necessary treatments for younger populations. It is encouraging to see steps being taken to integrate mental health into primary care and to recognize the essential role of Family Health Centers. Telemedicine emerges as an innovative solution that could help overcome many existing barriers, facilitating access to quality mental health services.

The proposal for a hybrid public policy that combines remote and in-person care is a step in the right direction. It could not only improve access to but also quality of care, which is essential to address this issue effectively. Now is a crucial moment to rethink and reform the mental health system in Chile, and every effort counts towards achieving positive change.

In this article, Luis Gerardo Ortiz Corona highlights the struggle of indigenous communities in Mexico, particularly the Rarámuri community, for recognition and self-determination. Their cosmogony, which intertwines their existence with the natural environment, provides them with a sense of identity and belonging that is fundamental to their culture. The idea that any alteration in their environment can destabilize their vital balance underscores the importance they place on the land and their traditions. Their connection to their territory is not only physical but also spiritual as they regard it as a legacy from their ancestors, which instills in them a profound sense of responsibility.

Furthermore, employing various methodologies to address the issues of forced migration and indigenous rights is a valuable approach. By combining historical, documentary, and phenomenological techniques, a richer and more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced emerges. This approach not only highlights the complexity of the situation but also underscores the importance of listening to voices and experiences.

The article invites us not only to witness the struggle of the Rarámuri but also to reflect on our own relationship with the land and the communities that inhabit it. It is a call for empathy and action to support recognition and rights.