Latin America protest risks will rise post-COVID-19

Significance

Latin America and the Caribbean now account for over one-quarter of confirmed COVID-19 cases and around one-third of deaths. Although stringent COVID-19-related measures imposed by many governments initially enjoyed strong popular support, in many cases that is rapidly reversing.

Impacts

• Protests will be muted even in some countries where responses have been criticised, such as Brazil and Mexico.
• Large gatherings of demonstrators, whatever their concerns, could dramatically increase contagion risks.
• The long-term impacts of COVID-19 will remain the source of protests after the pandemic recedes.