The Left in Latin America and Its Implications for Peru: A Comparative Literature Review

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the implications of the leftist trend in Latin America, with special emphasis on the Peruvian case. Through a systematic review of academic literature published over the past twenty years, the study examines the factors that have driven the rise of progressive governments in countries such as Mexico, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, Venezuela, and Colombia, as well as the political, ideological, and institutional characteristics of these processes. The findings reveal that, although there is a common narrative centered on social justice and equity, the trajectories of these governments vary significantly depending on each national context. In Peru, the attempt to establish a leftist government exposed deep structural limitations within the political system, preventing the consolidation of a stable progressive project. This study contributes to understanding the conditions that either favor or hinder the advancement of leftist movements in the region, highlighting the need for more institutional and programmatic approaches to ensure their viability.