The Pan-American Congress closes with a call for more equal north-south dialogue

The third Pan-American Congress concluded on Sunday in Montevideo, calling for a more equal dialogue between the north and south of the Americas. The forum, attended by approximately 150 lawmakers, governors, and former heads of state from fifteen countries, will convene in Brazil in 2027. Coordinated by David Adler, the closing session emphasized reframing the dialogue in more equitable terms.

Key areas of discussion included regional integration, peace and security, care policies, and welfare systems. Notably, former Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who inaugurated the 2024 edition, was absent due to his listing by the US Treasury Department for alleged involvement in illicit drug trafficking, a designation that Colombia deems as political persecution.

The congress also addressed the militarization of public security in various countries, with Brazilian Senator Humberto Costa raising concerns about Brazil's inclusion on the US terrorist group list, which he views as a threat to national sovereignty and a potential justification for military intervention. US lawmakers referenced their own midterm elections, while addressing the importance of prioritizing the wellbeing of working people and respecting Latin American sovereignty.

The forum, held from Friday to Sunday, featured an address by Macarena Gelman, granddaughter of Argentine poet Juan Gelman, whose identity was taken during Argentina's dictatorship. Repeated mentions of Uruguay's former president José Mujica highlighted the forum's legacy and influence.