Which two Latin American nations continue to have a dictatorial style of government?

History · High School · Mon Jan 18 2021

Answered on

As of my knowledge cutoff in early 2023, the two Latin American nations most commonly described as having dictatorial or authoritarian governments are Cuba and Venezuela.

Cuba has been under a socialist government since the Cuban Revolution of 1959, which brought Fidel Castro to power. Since then, the country has been ruled under a one-party system, led by the Communist Party. Although there have been some reforms, especially after Raul Castro, Fidel's brother, took over and subsequently Miguel Diaz-Canel became President, the Cuban government maintains strict control over political life, the media, and does not allow political opposition.

Venezuela, under the presidency of Nicolás Maduro, is often described as dictatorial due to alleged election manipulations, suppression of political opposition, control over the media, and the creation of a constituent assembly that has effectively sidelined the opposition-led legislature. Maduro succeeded Hugo Chávez after his death in 2013 and has since maintained his grip on power despite economic collapse and international criticism.

It is important to note that the terms "dictatorial" or "authoritarian" are often subject to political interpretation and debate. Some governments and their supporters may contest such labels, asserting their legitimacy and sovereignty against what they perceive as foreign interference or biased perspectives.