As Colombia continues to witness a surge in protests and widespread violence in Cali, the Inter-American Dialogue hosted the event “Colombia in Turmoil” on May 20 to examine the root causes and ramifications of the ensuing unrest. This conversation explored how the lack of confidence in the state and political parties, the rise in poverty and unemployment due to the pandemic, and the despair and frustration of Colombia’s youth have culminated in the crisis facing Colombia today.
The Inter-American Dialogue welcomed panelists Michael Reid, Adriana Urrutia Pozzi-Escot and Alberto Vergara for an online event, “Outlook for Peru’s Troubled Democracy,” on June 1 to discuss the contested presidential runoff in Peru. As the two candidates, Pedro Castillo and Keiko Fujimori, battle for the presidency, this conversation delved into the deepening political polarization in Peru as well as the ongoing crisis of legitimacy for both candidates. Panelists also explored the election within the context of mounting economic inequality and popular discontent in the wake of Covid-19.
On June 10, the Inter-American Dialogue welcomed María Eugenia Vidal, former governor of Buenos Aires and Dialogue member, to discuss the current political and economic conditions of Argentina as the nation approaches elections in the fall.
On June 23, 2021, the Inter-American Dialogue hosted a private meeting with members of the delegation of the Unitary Democratic Platform of Venezuela during their visit to Washington, DC. The private roundtable conversation included Leopoldo Lopez, National Coordinator of Voluntad Popular and former Mayor of Chacao; and Gerardo Blyde, President of the Unitary Democratic Platform.
As the political crisis in Haiti ensues with mounting social discontent and economic instability, the Inter-American Dialogue hosted a conversation on the current conditions in Haiti as well as approaches to securing peace and democratic governance in a country beset by turmoil.
On July 8, 2021, the Inter-American Dialogue hosted a congressional staff briefing on China’s Covid-19 engagement with Latin America. Panelists discussed developments in Chinese diplomacy in the Latin American region, both before and amid the pandemic.
