Latam’s turn from populism will be put to the test 15 Dec 2017 Demagogues of right and left will test the region's recent embrace of pro-business pragmatism in 2018. Presidential elections in Mexico and Brazil will feature firebrands keen to exploit voter anger at corrupt elites and lawlessness. The center, if it holds, will emerge stronger.
Latin America needs leaders who can say “adios” 4 Apr 2017 A reluctance to cede power is a common failing in a region known for strongmen and weak institutions. Protesters who torched Paraguay’s Congress over the issue last week had the right idea, if wrong method. Rulers’ refusal to let go clouds prospects in Ecuador and Venezuela too.
Ousting Paraguay’s Lugo may not have been smart 25 Jun 2012 The turbulent ex-bishop sparked violence with land-reform efforts and failed to tackle corruption but his overall economic record was OK. Impeaching him shook Paraguay’s democracy and stirred up regional leftists. Paraguay’s constitution needs tweaking to make impeachment harder.
Mercosur searching for alternatives to Adam Smith 23 Dec 2011 With members led by leftists, it’s not surprising the Latin trade bloc is raising tariffs and promoting anti-market policies. Mercosur has lots of commodities but relatively uncompetitive manufacturing, even in Brazil. One risk of economic experimentation is a return to poverty.