The XVII World Economy Meeting, held at the University of Oviedo in Spain, focused on “winners and loser in a world economy.”  To Latin American eyes, it’s clear that the “Great Recession” continues to have an influence, in both the developed and developing worlds. 

There are still several chances to correct mistakes made so far. 

Guatemala seems to be in a critical moment in its history. People feel there is a general absence of legitimacy for their elected representatives, not only in the executive branch, but also in the Congress, a feeling that extends to the courts, justice system, and to local officials.  All are seen as corrupt and inefficient. 

The blank ballot, a “vote of discontent,” reflects popular frustration with “corruption and debasement of public affairs” as “democracy goes through some bad times.”  But blank votes are not the answer. 

Social conflicts should be resolved through institutional channels. 

There is a common feeling that obligatory voting is a bother, and indeed, an infringement on personal freedom, and even drives “vote buying.”  But this “libertarian stance” is bogus. 

A group of civil society organizations is creating “Acción Ciudadana Frente a la Pobreza” to fight social and economic problems in Mexico. 

Peru’s boosters, both nationally and internationally, are bullish on its prospects, though many Peruvians are less optimistic. 

Democracy is not a success if human rights are violated and democratic spaces are restricted. 

Mexicans have long struggled for democracy, and while they have made progress, many of them feel disillusioned by their current version.