ABSTRACT
Democratic governance is under assault from several directions in Latin America. The region faces security problems that are extensive, complex, and highly destructive. Some problems are long-standing and systemic, such as corruption, weak institutions, and economic inequality. COVID-19 is further exposing the fragility and inadequacy of institutional capacities to deliver on the public good. The Fall 2019 protests that erupted in Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru occurred because of several years of economic stagnation, the inability to meet middle-class expectations, and growing distrust in the democratic institutions tasked with improving the lives of citizens. The correctional system is an important element of establishing security. The ability to punish but also to rehabilitate persons who violate the law is a crucial social function in civilized societies. Democracy requires political legitimacy generated by popular support for democratic values and respect for the rules governing the political system.
