Articles by Sujatha Fernandes

Even as Barack Obama has signalled a different approach to United States relations with Cuba, there are elements of continuity with the past. Obama needs to respond to many demands at the same time, including that of the domestic anti-Cuba lobby. But the balance of forces - both within the US and among Latin American countries - is still shifting, and this will play a crucial role in determining the future of US policy towards Cuba and Latin America.

Recent events in Latin America are indicative of the prevailing political instability. The laptops seized during a raid by the Colombian government on the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia in Ecuador allegedly reveal linkages between the leftist leaders of Venezuela/ Colombia and the rebels. Another indication of political fluidity is the case of the Bolivian separatist elites fostering autonomy claims, which could fuel regionalist sentiments across countries.

Venezuela's constitutional referendum is scheduled for early December. Opposition parties remain divided over what strategy to adopt in an uphill battle. While some of the criticism views the proposed changes through the lens of procedural democracy, there is an apprehension that substantive democracy is likely to be eroded with the president monopolising power and wielding greater executive authority.

The proposal by Venezuelan president Hugo Chávez to unite all the parties supporting him into a single united front has started a debate in the country about the relevance of political parties and their role in social change. Perhaps community-based organisations are more in tune with present-day reality.