The Role of UNASUR in the South American Democratic Crises (2008-2015)

Elias David Morales Martinez,Mariana Preta Oliveira De Lyra

doi:10.21530/ci.v13n1.2018.729

Abstract

The paper aims to analyze the performance of UNASUR in its first initial phase of activities in cases of democratic crises that happened in South America, during the period 2008-2015. Thus, it examines the cases of Bolivia (2008), Ecuador (2010), Paraguay (2012) and Venezuela (2014-2015). The central hypothesis of this study is that the defense of democracy and its institutions has been incorporated as one of the fundamental elements of the organization. Therefore, UNASUR is guided by political dialogue and consensus building for the maintenance of the democratic order in the South American countries and, consequently, a deepening of the regional integration process. It is argued that UNASUR includes democracy as one of its core values and acts to defend it in unstable situation. Therefore, the strengthening of the organization depends, among other factors, on its ability to resolve conflicts and promote democracy in the continent.

Highlights

The Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) was created in 2008, the result of Brazil’s proposal for regional integration
UNASUR is guided by political dialogue and consensus building for the maintenance of the democratic order in the South American countries and, a deepening of the regional integration process
It is argued that UNASUR includes democracy as one of its core values and acts to defend it in unstable situation

Summary

Introduction

The Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) was created in 2008, the result of Brazil’s proposal for regional integration. The UNASUR acts based on political dialogue and consensus building for the maintenance of the democratic order in South American countries, strengthening regional integration. During the opening speech of the 63rd General Assembly of the United Nations, former President of Brazil, Lula da Silva, said: In my continent, the UNASUR was created last May, as the first treaty – after 200 years of Independence- that congregates all South American countries. This new political union will coordinate the region’s countries in terms of infrastructure, energy, social policies, complementarities of production, finances and defense

Political dialogue

The Democratic Clause of UNASUR

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