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Article: The Dynamics of Democracy : During the last two decades, democracy and economic freedom have brought relative stability and prosperity to the region.
- Article from:
- The World and I
- Article date:
- April 1, 2002
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2002 News World Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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The Western Hemisphere has searched for freedom and democracy for the past two centuries. The record, unfortunately, is less than perfect.
During the last two decades, democracy and economic freedom made clear but gradual inroads across Latin America, bringing relative stability and growing prosperity to our southern neighbors. Today, however, there are growing signs of political disillusionment and unrest across the region.
Recent polling data show that the popularity of political leaders, parties, and institutions is at an all-time low. More troubling, political protest and even political violence appear to be on the rise, as citizens seek to challenge ...