theguardian.com
Latin America's Neoliberal Shift and the Rise of the Far-Right
The neoliberal shift in Latin America since the late 20th century has increased inequality, fueled the rise of the far-right, and weakened democracy, marked by the use of social media for polarization and judicial overreach, requiring a new solidarity-based development model.
- How have social media and the judicial system contributed to the rise of the far-right in Latin America?
- The shift from state-led development to market liberalization in Latin America fueled social unrest and political instability. This created an opening for authoritarian leaders who capitalized on growing inequality and societal divisions, often using social media for polarization.
- What are the primary consequences of the neoliberal shift in Latin America, and how has it impacted the region's political landscape?
- Post-WWII, Latin America adopted the ECLA model, emphasizing protectionism and social programs. However, a market-centric model later replaced it, increasing inequality and weakening democracy, leading to the rise of the far-right.
- What new development model is needed to counter the current trends of inequality, authoritarianism, and deglobalization in Latin America and the world?
- The resurgence of the far-right in Latin America and the US signifies a global trend. This is characterized by the weaponization of social media, judicial overreach, and a rejection of multilateralism, posing a significant threat to democracy and social progress. A new model of development prioritizing solidarity and regional integration is crucial to counter this.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed as a struggle between progressive forces and a resurgent right-wing threat to democracy and social justice. This framing establishes a clear narrative of victims and aggressors. The use of terms like "fascist abyss" and "Uncle Sam of the 1950s" strongly influences the reader's perception of the situation. Headlines (if any) would likely emphasize this conflictual framing, leading the reader to view the situation in a more polarized and alarmist manner than a more balanced analysis might.
Language Bias
The text employs charged language such as "fascist abyss", "anti-politicians", "radicalization of political projects", and "soft coup attempts". These terms are not neutral and evoke strong negative emotions toward the right-wing governments and figures mentioned. More neutral language, such as 'authoritarian tendencies,' 'political opponents,' or 'election challenges,' could be used to maintain objectivity. The repetition of the term "right-wing" throughout the analysis further reinforces the negative bias.
Bias by Omission
The analysis focuses heavily on the negative impacts of right-wing governments and policies in Latin America, but omits discussion of potential positive aspects or alternative perspectives on their actions. There is no mention of any successes or positive outcomes achieved by these governments. This creates an unbalanced view. Additionally, the analysis largely ignores the internal political dynamics within progressive movements, focusing more on external pressures and threats.
False Dichotomy
The text presents a stark dichotomy between 'progressivism' and the 'far right', with little room for nuanced political positions or ideologies beyond these two extremes. The description of the political landscape simplifies a complex reality by reducing it to a binary opposition. This oversimplification prevents a comprehensive understanding of the various political actors and their motivations.
Gender Bias
While the analysis mentions the fight against discrimination based on gender, race, and occupation, it doesn't delve into the specifics of gender bias in the political landscape. The focus remains on class and ideological struggles rather than examining gender-specific issues within the described political events and power structures. This oversight could lead to an incomplete picture regarding the multifaceted issues at play.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a significant worsening of inequality in Latin America since 2016, exacerbated by the pandemic. This led to 209 million people experiencing poverty by the end of 2020. The text directly connects this rising inequality to the delegitimization of democracy and the rise of the far-right. This directly contradicts the SDG 10 aim to reduce inequality within and among countries.