Civil Society and the State in Left-led Latin America: Challenges and Limitations to Democratization

Timely and unique, this innovative volume critically examines the role of civil society throughout left-led Latin America. Featuring case studies from across the region, from the Bolivian Constitution to participative budgeting in Brazil to the communal councils in Venezuela, the book investigates to what extent these new initiatives are redefining relations between the state and civil society. Does the return of an active state in Latin America imply the incorporation of civil society representatives in decision making? Is the new left delivering on the promise of participatory democracy and a redefinition of citizenship, or are we witnessing a new democratic deficit? A wide-ranging analysis of a vital issue, both for Latin America and beyond.