Bridge Watch Report

The BRIDGE Watch Reports aim to carry out an in-depth, data-based analysis of six thematic axes that are essential for democratic governance and sustainable development in Latin America. Published in three annual editions, the reports will address strategic themes, organised in pairs:

  • Rule of Law and Democracy
  • Human Rights and Digital Transformation
  • Fair Trade and the Green Transition
 
Each edition will provide a detailed assessment of these areas in ten Latin American countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay. The research is based on collecting and analysing quantitative and qualitative data, providing a broad overview of trends, challenges, and good practices in the region. As well as providing a diagnosis of the current situation in Latin America, the reports include strategic recommendations for strengthening public policies, promoting transparency, and fostering cooperation between governments, civil society, and the private sector. With this initiative, the BRIDGE Watch project seeks not only to enrich the global debate on democracy, development, and sustainability, but also to provide valuable insights for decision-makers and experts. By highlighting the shared values between the European Union and Latin American countries, the reports help to identify convergences and divergences that influence both bilateral relations and interregional cooperation, contributing to a more solid and informed dialogue between both regions.

Report Rule of Law in Latin America

The rule of law is an essential pillar for democratic stability, social development, and the guarantee of human rights. The Rule of Law in Latin America report, prepared by the Jean Monnet Network’s BRIDGE Watch project, presents a comprehensive analysis of the situation in ten Latin American countries, examining the challenges and advances in consolidating solid and transparent institutions.

The study focuses on crucial aspects such as the independence of the judiciary, the fight against corruption, press freedom and institutional structure. Among the challenges identified are political interference in the judicial system, systemic corruption and growing restrictions on freedom of expression.

The final analysis of the report was drawn up with the contribution of 35 experts, who gathered detailed data and research to provide an accurate and in-depth overview of the Latin American reality. As a response to the challenges identified, the report proposes strategic recommendations, including reforms in the selection processes for judges, greater transparency in public funding and protection measures for journalists, reinforcing their essential role in the defence of the rule of law.

This report is an indispensable resource for academics, policymakers and members of civil society committed to democratic governance and the promotion of justice in Latin America.

Report Democracy in Latin America

Democracy in Latin America is going through a dynamic scenario, marked by significant advances but also by persistent challenges. The Democracy in Latin America report, published by the Jean Monnet Network’s BRIDGE Watch project, offers a comprehensive analysis of the situation in ten Latin American countries, addressing key aspects such as political representation, citizen participation, fundamental rights, and government effectiveness.

The research highlights crucial issues including electoral integrity, freedom of the press, inclusion of minorities and political funding. Although democracy has been consolidated and strengthened in many countries, the report identifies persistent challenges such as inequality in representation, institutional fragility, and threats to electoral transparency.

The final analysis drew on the work of 35 experts, who contributed research, analyses, and diagnoses of the different political contexts in the region. As a result, the report presents strategic recommendations for strengthening democratic processes, broadening social participation, and improving governance in Latin America.

This study represents an essential resource for policymakers, academics and all those committed to the defence of democracy and the rule of law in Latin America.

Human Rights in Latin America Report

Human rights are a cornerstone of democratic governance, institutional legitimacy, and sustainable development. The Human Rights in Latin America Report, prepared within the framework of the Jean Monnet Network Policy Debate Project BRIDGE Watch, provides a comprehensive and comparative assessment of the protection of fundamental rights in ten Latin American countries, identifying key advances, structural challenges, and emerging risks.

The report is structured around five thematic pillars that examine national regulatory frameworks, the functioning and independence of human rights institutions, compliance with international and regional human rights systems, access to justice and judicial remedies, and the role of civil society, education, and the media. Particular attention is paid to issues such as the constitutional integration of international human rights treaties, the effectiveness of judicial protection mechanisms, the use of states of emergency, access to public information and data protection, and the protection of human and environmental rights defenders.

The report identifies persistent challenges, including gaps between formal commitments and effective implementation, institutional weaknesses, uneven judicial independence, and insufficient coordination in complying with international human rights obligations.

As a response, the report, resulting from a collective effort involving 52 collaborators, formulates 92 targeted policy recommendations aimed at strengthening institutional autonomy, improving regulatory coherence, enhancing compliance with international decisions, and promoting inclusive, rights-based public policies. By offering an evidence-based and policy-relevant framework, the report serves as a strategic tool for policymakers, international partners, civil society, and academics engaged in advancing human rights, democratic governance, and EU–Latin America cooperation.

Digital Transition in Latin America Report

The digital transition has become a strategic pillar for economic development, democratic governance, and social inclusion. The Digital Transition in Latin America Report, prepared within the framework of the Jean Monnet Network Policy Debate Project BRIDGE Watch, offers a comprehensive and comparative assessment of digital transformation policies in ten Latin American countries, highlighting progress, structural gaps, and regulatory challenges.

The report analyzes key dimensions of the digital transition through four thematic pillars: equitable access to technology and connectivity, green technology and digital climate transition, ethics and algorithmic justice, and cybersecurity and global digital trust. It examines national digital strategies, public policies to reduce the digital divide, recognition of access to the Internet as a fundamental right, regulatory approaches to artificial intelligence, data protection, algorithmic transparency, and compliance with international and European standards, including emerging alignment with the EU AI Act and the GDPR.

The analysis highlights notable progress in digital infrastructure and e-government, alongside the rapid adoption of emerging technologies, but also exposes persistent gaps in connectivity, digital skills, AI regulation and the protection of privacy and digital rights. It stresses the urgency of advancing sustainable digitalisation, balancing technological innovation with environmental responsibility and human rights.

In response, the report presents 79 targeted policy recommendations, ranging from digital inclusion and sustainable infrastructure to AI governance, cybersecurity and strengthened EU–Latin America cooperation. Developed by 52 collaborators, it serves as a key resource for policymakers, academics and civil society, promoting evidence-based and people-centred digital governance aligned with democracy, human rights and sustainability in Latin America.