중남미

Though the left wave in the 2000s appears to be a new phenomenon in Latin America, there are parallels with the past. First, it is still accurate to divide it between one more radical and one social-democratic left. Second, it is furthermore still divided into two paths, which were somewhat established under different circumstances and reasons in Central America, the Andes and in the Southern Cone. Third, the division between the moderate and radical left has clearly been witnessed before. In previous (Costa Rica 1949-,Venezuela 1958-) as well as contemporary cases (Argentina, Chile, Uruguay)social-democratic parties have always promoted liberal democracy and the economic order of today, but have never challenged the elite actors’ position in society or the democratic stability. In addition, the contemporary radical cases (Venezuela, Bolivia and Ecuador) have similarities to old cases (Guatemala 1944-1954, Chile 1970-1973) in the attempt to challenge liberal democracy and accomplishing drastic socio-economic reforms, but while the old cases ended in military coups the radical left is still in power in the contemporary cases. Ultimately, the left in government is not a new phenomenon, and today it has two paths, but the scope of its influences, in the radical cases, will probably have deeper consequences for society and democracy than ever.