Criminal Politics and Botched Development in Contemporary Latin America

This Element examines the relationship between the narcotics industry and politics in Latin America, arguing that criminal politics arise from the interactions between criminal organizations, politicians, and state agents. It explores how criminal politics impact countries' political systems and economic development prospects, using four case studies: Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This Element delves into the intricate relationship between the narcotics industry and politics, examining its profound impact on domestic political dynamics, including economic development prospects in Latin America. It argues that the convergence of criminal organizations, politicians, and state agents creates a complex web of criminal politics, where the pursuit of individual agendas and goals intertwine, shaping the political landscape of countries. This transformative force is altering the very fabric of political systems, exerting a significant influence on the prospects and nature of social and economic development.

According to the Element, the manifestations of criminal politics vary based on the intricate interplay between different phases of drug-trafficking activity, such as production, trafficking, and money laundering, and the unique politico-institutional characteristics of individual countries. To explore this argument, the Element conducts a systematic examination of four cases that have received limited attention in the specialized literature: Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay. These cases serve as valuable examples of how criminal politics manifests in different contexts, highlighting the diverse ways in which the drug trade influences political systems and governance.

In Chile, for instance, the Element explores the role of organized crime in shaping political institutions and processes. It highlights the connections between criminal groups and political elites, as well as the influence of drug money on electoral campaigns and policy-making. The case study reveals how criminal politics has contributed to the erosion of democratic norms, the marginalization of marginalized communities, and the perpetuation of social inequality.

Paraguay, on the other hand, presents a contrasting perspective, showcasing how criminal politics can be used to promote social and economic development. The Element highlights the role of criminal organizations in providing infrastructure and services to marginalized communities, particularly in rural areas. It also examines how criminal politics has influenced the country's political stability and governance, highlighting the potential for criminal organizations to play a constructive role in the development process.

Peru and Uruguay offer similar insights into the complex dynamics of criminal politics. The Element explores the role of drug-trafficking organizations in influencing political institutions and processes, as well as the impact of drug-related violence on social and political stability. It also examines how criminal politics has contributed to the erosion of democratic norms and the marginalization of marginalized communities.

Through these case studies, the Element makes a compelling argument that criminal politics is a significant factor shaping the political landscape of Latin America. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to address the complex challenges posed by the drug trade, including efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote social inclusion, and address the root causes of drug-trafficking.

In conclusion, this Element provides a valuable contribution to the understanding of the relationship between the narcotics industry and politics in Latin America. It sheds light on the complex web of criminal politics that emerges from the convergence of criminal organizations, politicians, and state agents. By examining the case studies of Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay, the Element highlights the diverse manifestations of criminal politics and the profound impact it has on social and economic development. It underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach to address the challenges posed by the drug trade, including efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote social inclusion, and address the root causes of drug-trafficking.

Weight: 164g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108958059