Voters in Latin America now see crime, drug trafficking, and corruption as their biggest worries. Official surveys and reports show these issues matter more to people than inflation or the economy.

As a result, many voters are choosing leaders who promise to be tough on crime. Recent attacks on politicians, like the attempted killing of Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay and the murder of Ecuadorian candidate Fernando Villavicencio, have shocked the public.

These events highlight how dangerous the region has become, not just for regular people but also for those in government. The World Bank reports that Latin America has some of the highest crime rates in the world.

Homicide rates are eight times higher than the global average. Criminal groups have grown stronger, often working across borders and using advanced technology. This makes it hard for any one country to fix the problem alone.

Because of all this violence, trust in government has dropped. Many people feel that current leaders, especially those on the left, are not doing enough to keep them safe.

Security Crisis in Latin America Pushes Voters Toward Tougher Leaders. (Photo Internet reproduction)

This has led to more support for right-leaning politicians who say they will crack down on crime. For example, Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa won office after promising strong action against gangs.

The economic impact is also serious. The World Bank expects the region to grow just 2.1 percent in 2025, the slowest rate in the world. Businesses face higher costs for security, and investors worry about political instability.

Experts warn that simply getting tougher on crime will not solve the crisis. Criminal networks are powerful and well-funded. Real change will require countries to work together, strengthen their police and courts, and keep at it for years.

For now, the crisis shapes daily life and politics across Latin America. People want safer streets and honest leaders. The choices voters make in the coming elections will affect not just their safety but also the region’s future growth and stability.

All facts and figures in this story come from official sources like the World Bank and major regional surveys.