Right-wing advances in South America: understand the political turn

How is the current political division in the subcontinent?

The scenario has changed drastically since the beginning of 2023. At that time, the left dominated with eight presidents. With the recent elections, the game has changed: there are now seven right-wing governments (Argentina, Paraguay, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia and Peru) against five left-wing governments (Brazil, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname and Uruguay).

Who are the new leaders driving this change?

The main names in this transformation include Abelardo de la Espriella, recently elected in Colombia, and Keiko Fujimori, who leads the investigation in Peru. They join figures such as Argentine Javier Milei, Ecuadorian Daniel Noboa, Bolivian Rodrigo Paz and Chilean José Antonio Kast, forming a new conservative bloc in the region.

What explains voters’ desire for right-wing governments?

Experts point out that the average voter is less focused on ideologies and more concerned with practical results. Fatigue with the increase in violence, the high cost of living and the perception that previous left-wing governments promised much and delivered little generated a search for ‘order and predictability’.

What is the weight of public safety in this choice?

Security is the main driver. In Ecuador and Peru, for example, candidates capitalized on fears of organized crime and institutional instability. The ‘hard-line’ discourse against crime resonates strongly in populations facing crises of violence and impunity.

How does the international scenario influence this turnaround?

Donald Trump’s presence in the White House acts as an accelerator. For markets and local economic elites, South American governments aligned with Washington convey greater confidence in investments and economic stability, favoring the growth of liberal and conservative agendas.