Western Hemisphere Progressives Plot a Comeback
A gathering in Uruguay sought to counter the “Donroe Doctrine.”
This week's Latin America Brief from Foreign Policy highlights several developments: leftist lawmakers from various countries convened for a strategy session in Uruguay, Mexico reacted to the U.S.-Canada trade war, and the race for the next United Nations secretary-general continued. In contrast to the right-wing dominance of Latin American politics, a distinct group is working to strengthen the hemisphere's left-leaning influence.
The Panamerican Congress, held in Montevideo, Uruguay, brought together politicians from Canada to Chile, addressing concerns against the U.S. "Donroe Doctrine" and promoting progressive policies. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attended, while other left-leaning leaders like Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum voiced support for national sovereignty and open dialogue to mitigate trade impacts and military threats.
On the ground, progressive lawmakers in countries like Argentina have contested the opaque economic terms of President Javier Milei's agreements with the U.S., and Ecuador's opposition lawmakers rallied against potential U.S. military base establishment. Meanwhile, right-wing leaders from right-wing countries have focused on financial deregulation, hard-line security policies, and climate change skepticism at CPAC events.
The Panamerican Congress' emphasis on democracy and female leadership sets it apart from past gatherings like the São Paulo Forum, which was criticized for its ties to autocratic regimes. The event also delved into matters such as care work programs to support working women and self-critique regarding corruption and security issues. Although the participants have limited executive power, their ideas may shape future Latin American policies amid the region's evolving political landscape.
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