Political violence is not uncommon in South America. Between 2018 and 2021, political violence — along with social conflict — has increased manifold in the region. In several countries, there are increased political troubles, leading to political violence including protests and riots. According to multiple sources including the BBC, voters cast their votes during the waves of violence in Ecuador. Among others, there was political violence in Brazil in January 2023 and in Peru in 2022 and early 2023. The supporters of the leading candidates in Brazil’s presidential elections, Jair Bolsonaro and Lula da Silva, were involved in violent confrontations, leading to the deaths of two supporters of Lula.
It is notable that there are diverse factors that lead to political violence in several Latin American countries, some of which have been facing gang violence for several decades. Authoritarian regimes, election manipulation and opposition repression are the crucial causes of political violence. For instance, in Bolivia, former President Evo Morales faced allegations of election fraud, which sparked mass demonstrations and ultimately resulted in his resignation. Additionally, corruption, government inefficiency and economic mismanagement have contributed to political violence in several countries. Among others, socio-economic grievances, as many countries in the region struggle with high levels of poverty, often fuel political violence. Economic grievances due to causes including rising fuel costs have led to violence in Ecuador several times.
Steps have definitely been taken to address the causes of political violence in South America. Several countries have focused on strengthening political institutions, promoting transparency and holding fair elections driven by growing protests and international pressure. Reform measures were made to combat corruption, strengthen political institutions and promote social inclusion in several countries including Ecuador, Brazil and Argentina. Additionally, efforts have been made to improve social and economic conditions by addressing economic inequality and poverty — which contribute to political unrest and violence. Some governments are also actively promoting dialogue and fostering a culture of tolerance and respect for differing political views of political and indigenous groups to address political and economic grievances.
But there are limitations in the steps taken to address political violence and its underlying political and other causes in different South American countries. In many cases, governments respond to political protests with force without addressing the causes of it including electoral manipulation. There is also a lack of strong commitment from governments many times to address political grievances, though the most of countries in South America are experiencing their longest stretch of democracy ever. Among others, there is a limited focus on addressing the underlying socioeconomic and other concerns that often contribute to political violence in different South American countries.
It is desired that steps be taken to address the political problems that lead to political violence in South America. Fostering dialogue among different political parties/factions can help solve political problems and prevent political violence. Additionally, promoting social inclusion and economic development, along with strengthening political institutions and establishing the rule of law, is crucial to effectively addressing political violence. The role of international actors may also be helpful many times in addressing political problems. Among others, addressing the gang problem may lead to a significant reduction in political violence.
Amir M Sayem
Chief Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
