The Bolivarian Government of Hugo Chávez: Democratic Alternative for Latin America?

Abstract

An analysis of opinion surveys throughout Latin America concerning state institutions and electoral participation reveals that the region's population displays an ever weaker commitment to the political and ideological institutions of Latin American capitalism. Despite this generalised lack of political legitimacy found in most Latin American countries, the opposite appears to be occurring in Venezuela. The Bolivarian process has therefore become an obligatory point of reference for studies of present day Latin American democracy. Following a discussion of different forms of capitalist democracy, especially neoliberal democracy in Latin America, consideration is extended to the political and social content of the Bolivarian process being directed by Hugo Chávez. Particular attention is given to the corresponding actions of different Venezuelan social sectors.