Beyond the fact that, in general, elections are held periodically, democracy in Latin America still has a long way to go to improve its "quality". Issues such as the rule of law, civil liberties, human rights, freedom of association and the participation of civil society in public affairs need to be monitored so as to warn of any possible setback or threat to its consolidation and progress. Despite undisputed progress, the consolidation of democracy in the continent is still far from being irreversible.
After some decades of growth, social policy improvements and fine economic prospects, Latin America should be better prepared now than ever before to address the strengthening of its democracies. However, the degree to which the current economic cycle will end up affecting Latin American economies will determine to a large extent the pace of progress. Besides, the region is dragged down by problems in education and productivity and is strongly dependent on foreign markets where, in the early stages of 2016, expectations appear to be worsening alarmingly.
