At this point, what is clear is that there is still a will to continue to find a solution by both the government and the FARC guerrilla group. The conversation now turns to “How?” and there is still a lot of uncertainty over the best way to solve this question. Continue Reading
Colombia’s President Juan Manuel Santos promised that if his administration were to succeed in the peace negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), he would bring the agreement to the people for ratification. But the request for a plebiscite, while intended to demonstrate support for the agreement, has quickly turned into a match-up between Santos and former President Alvaro Uribe. Continue Reading
Many welcome Mexico City’s historic restructuring because they believe it will help curtail the influence of the federal government. However, Mexico City must also focus its efforts on its political and fiscal autonomy, including improving local tax revenue collection, supporting efforts that engage its citizens in local issues and elections and improving transparency and accountability to its residents. Continue Reading
Mexico’s transition to democracy is unique and distinct from similar processes elsewhere in the world. Unlike Eastern Europe, Spain or Portugal, Mexico’s transition to a modern democracy did not require a “foundational moment,” or the reintroduction of a new or revised constitution. Continue Reading
The media and government have a complex relationship. A few decades ago in Latin America, military dictatorships severely restricted freedom of expression by the press. Today, however, under democratic governments throughout the region, media censorship is more subtle and, in… Continue Reading
Rarely is an election process as interesting as the one that is currently underway in Colombia. On Sunday, May 30, Colombians will vote for the next president. However, chances are slim that it will be determined in a first round,… Continue Reading
Latin American countries have a shared and common history: Many are now in the midst of commemorating the bicentennial of their independence. Bolivia and Ecuador marked this event in 2009. This year Argentina, Mexico, Colombia and Chile celebrate; followed by… Continue Reading