In February 2025, Argentina faced mass protests over government discontent, while Colombia’s ELN intensified conflict against rivals. Ecuador struggled with increased violence targeting political figures. Violence escalated in Haiti amid clashes between gangs and self-defense groups. Honduras recorded multiple killings linked to organized crime around elections, while Mexico enhanced security operations against the Sinaloa Cartel, reflecting wider challenges across the region.
In February 2025, significant political developments occurred across Latin America and the Caribbean, with particular emphasis on Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Haiti, Honduras, and Mexico. Argentina faced widespread protests driven by discontent with President Javier Milei’s government and issues arising from environmental crises and a recent controversy dubbed “cryptogate.” In Colombia, the ELN’s offensive against rival groups intensified, evidencing a volatile conflict landscape that challenges the ambition of President Gustavo Petro’s peace initiatives.
Ecuador’s electoral process has been complicated by increasing violent attacks on political figures, underscoring the nation’s struggle with rising criminal activity. Additionally, intense clashes between self-defense groups and gangs in Haiti have heightened the humanitarian crisis, prompting extensive violence and displacement in affected neighborhoods. Meanwhile, Honduras experienced a surge in organized crime-related violence amidst upcoming elections, raising concerns over public safety.
In Mexico, security operations against the Sinaloa Cartel intensified, leading to numerous arrests and the dismantling of cartel infrastructure. These developments signify a concerted effort by authorities to address organized crime within the region, influenced by both domestic and international pressures, notably from the United States. The intertwined challenges of political turmoil and escalating violence will significantly impact these nations’ stability in the approaching months.
The overview of the political landscape in Latin America and the Caribbean during February 2025 highlights critical concerns, including widespread civil unrest in Argentina, escalating violence in Colombia and Ecuador, intensifying gang warfare in Haiti, and organized crime-related fatalities in Honduras. While Mexico’s government increases efforts against drug cartels, the ramifications of these conflicts could have long-standing implications for governance, public safety, and electoral integrity across the region. Understanding these dynamics is essential for anticipating future developments in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
