“The Situation in Latin-America – Challenges and Opportunities

This roundtable discussion organized in cooperation with the Danube Institute focused on the current political and social developments in the region, particularly on the role of the São Paulo Forum. The event’s keynote speaker was Alejandro Peña Esclusa, leading expert of the Christian Democratic Institute, who provided an in-depth analysis of the challenges Latin America is currently facing and needs to overcome.

During his speech, Peña Esclusa emphasized that Latin Americans are growing increasingly disillusioned with socialist governments. He explained that left-wing leaders affiliated with the São Paulo Forum have deep connections to drug cartels that hold significant power over the region. Moreover, convicted criminals have also been among the members of the organization.

According to Peña Esclusa, the current struggle is not merely an ideological battle but a broader conflict in which defenders of democracy are fighting against organized crime. He also highlighted the importance of the U.S. decision under President Donald Trump to designate drug cartels as global terrorist organizations, a move that could play a crucial role in restoring stability to the region.

Our other guest was Zsolt Németh, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Hungarian Parliament, who noted that international political shifts, particularly in the United States, are creating new opportunities, for Hungary as well. He stated: “The Trump tornado fundamentally changes Hungary’s political maneuvering, allowing for much broader action.”

John O’Sullivan, President of the Danube Institute, who was our moderator and host as well as speaker warned that the São Paulo Forum is actively working to obstruct the national-conservative movements emerging in Latin America and elsewhere. He stressed the need for international organizations that can effectively respond and counter progressive leftist ideologies.

At the end of the event, Alejandro Peña Esclusa’s book, “Classical Art and Cultural Marxism,” was presented. The book explores the intersection of art and politics in modern societies, shedding light on the ideological battles shaping contemporary culture.

The roundtable discussion provided valuable insights into the political challenges facing Latin America, the role of the São Paulo Forum, and the required responses of conservative movements worldwide to these threats.