Latin America's 21st-Century Militaries

Special Report

Latin America's 21st-Century Militaries

In many countries, soldiers are again playing a prominent role in politics, security and the economy. Is this a restoration – or something entirely new?

It's Not the 1970s Again for Latin America's Militaries. Here's Why.

By FRANK O. MORA and BRIAN FONSECA
They're back – but militaries have evolved since dark chapters of the past, write two leading specialists.

Photo Essay: Latin America's Militaries in a Year of Unrest

By BRENDAN O'BOYLE
A wave of political turmoil in the second half of 2019 put regional militaries in the spotlight, raising questions about their role and evolution on human rights.

"It's Complicated": Inside Bolsonaro's Relationship With Brazil's Military

By BRIAN WINTER
Brazil's military still plays a major role in Bolsonaro's government. But after a wave of firings and public disputes, some say the relationship is in trouble.

What the Region's Armed Forces Look Like

A snapshot of the military in 10 countries.

How Chávez Broke Venezuela's Military

By FABIANA SOFIA PERERA
The transformation of the armed forces has direct implications for the country's crisis – and a possible transition.

U.S. Military Southcom Chief: "Let's Get to Work"

By ADMIRAL CRAIG S. FALLER
Common threats – and opportunities – call for greater collaboration, writes the commander of U.S. Southern Command.

Inside Mauricio Macri's Delicate Campaign to Rebuild Argentina's Military

By ANDREI SERBIN-PONT
The former president tried to bring the armed forces out of the shadow of the last dictatorship. Will his successor reverse course?

After Chile, It's Clear Militaries Evolved Less Than We Thought

By FELIPE AGÜERO
A wave of abuses suggests some soldiers never really adapted to democracy.

Why It's Essential to Have More Women in Latin America's Militaries

By CECILIA TORNAGHI
An interview with Brazilian Navy Lieutenant Commander Marcia Braga.

Wiretaps and Conspiracies: An Inside Look at Venezuela's Military

By EMILIE SWEIGART
A lieutenant colonel in exile speaks out about the fear and corruption in Maduro's barracks.

The Enduring Myth of the "Non-Corrupt" Military

By ROBERTO SIMON
The false notion that the armed forces are inherently cleaner is dangerous to democracy in Latin America.

Amid Unrest, Democracy Remains the Answer for Latin America

By SUSAN SEGAL
Lessons from three decades observing the region's militaries.

Latin America’s 21st-Century Militaries

Special Report