In February 2025, widespread protests erupted in Argentina over government discontent under President Javier Milei. Colombia’s ELN intensified conflicts with rival groups, while Ecuador faced heightened violence against political figures leading to insecurity around elections. Haiti dealt with severe gang-related violence, and Honduras experienced organized crime challenges amid electoral tensions. Mexico continued targeted operations against cartels as violence gradually decreased.
This article presents a regional overview of the ongoing political and social unrest occurring in multiple Latin American countries as of March 2025. It highlights significant events in Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Haiti, Honduras, and Mexico, illustrating the escalating violence and dissatisfaction with government leadership.
In Argentina, widespread discontent with President Javier Milei has resulted in over 155 protests throughout February 2025, more than double that of the previous month. Major protests were spurred by Milei’s controversial remarks at the World Economic Forum and demands for improved environmental policies in light of severe forest fires. Furthermore, the fallout from the “cryptogate” scandal regarding the cryptocurrency $LIBRA has damaged public trust, with a survey indicating that 53% of respondents believe Milei was complicit in a scam, threatening Argentina’s international relations and economic stability.
Colombia’s National Liberation Army (ELN) has expanded its offensive against rival groups into various departments, including Arauca, Antioquia, Bolívar, and Chocó, following tension with factions of the demobilized FARC. The ELN’s violent tactics have resulted in significant humanitarian issues, displacing thousands in Chocó due to skirmishes with rival gangs. Challenging the government’s Total Peace strategy, the ELN’s actions underline the fragmented nature of Colombia’s ongoing conflict.
In Ecuador, the political climate has become increasingly dangerous, as evidenced by assassinations and attacks targeting political figures amidst the electoral process. Following presidential elections on 9 February, escalating violence has claimed numerous lives and contributed to a heightened atmosphere of fear and instability, with a 430% increase in homicides over five years.
Haiti is grappling with severe gang violence as clashes between self-defense groups and the Kraze Baryè gang have led to significant casualties, forcing thousands from their homes. This violence is the highest in recent months, indicating a troubling trend in Port-au-Prince, where gangs are threatening community security.
In Honduras, organized crime violence has surged around the electoral season, with a notable increase in multiple-fatality attacks linked to criminal disputes. The government has implemented a state of exception to combat this, but violence continues to rise, highlighting the challenges ahead for upcoming elections.
Finally, in Mexico, federal security operations targeting the Sinaloa cartel have intensified, resulting in the arrest of several key figures and an increase in property destruction linked to cartel-related activities. These operations, pressured by the United States, seek to mitigate the ongoing drug trafficking problem but have also led to a gradual reduction in violence within Sinaloa.
The regional overview illustrates a concerning trend of escalating violence and political unrest in Latin America and the Caribbean. Various countries demonstrate struggles with government dissatisfaction, organized crime, and confrontations during electoral processes. Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador, Haiti, Honduras, and Mexico are coping with significant challenges that threaten public safety and governance. Such conditions call for urgent attention and robust strategies to restore stability and confidence in these nations.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
