Why is Latin America shifting to the right? - France 24

Theory Briefing

• A wave of right-leaning leaders gaining power across Latin America is prompting debate about what is driving the regional political realignment.
• Economic frustration and disillusionment with left-wing governments are frequently cited as fuel for the shift toward conservative and populist right candidates.
• The trend mirrors global patterns where voters punish incumbents amid inflation and insecurity, regardless of their ideological stripe.
• Cultural backlash — against progressive social policies — is also offered as a competing explanation for the rightward momentum.