The Socialist International Committee for Latin America and the Caribbean convened in Rio de Janeiro from October 18-20, 2024. 

The meeting hosted by our member party PDT brought together leaders from socialist, social democratic, and labour parties to address pressing regional concerns, including the resurgence of far-right ideologies, economic difficulties, and social inequalities. 

The Chair of the Committee Miguel Vargas  welcomed the participants  and presented the agenda that included the main challenges of the region . 

The leader of  PDT Carlos Lupi analyzed  the challenges  Brazil is facing today and the efforts made by the coalition government to promote important reforms . He affirmed  its commitment to democracy, social justice, and human rights, values shared by the SI . 

The following days  discussions focused  on the current state of democracy in the region, particularly the threats posed by political polarisation and authoritarianism. Delegates highlighted the importance of reinforcing democratic institutions, securing judicial independence, and advancing economic policies that reduce social inequalities. 

Participants condemned the politicisation of judicial systems in various countries, stressing the importance of judicial independence to maintain public trust and democratic integrity. 

The highlight of the conference was the Rio Declaration, a collective commitment to safeguarding democracy and addressing humanitarian crises, with particular emphasis on inclusive and sustainable social policies. This declaration encapsulates the committee's resolve to develop joint strategies to defend democratic values and counter reactionary ideologies.

Specific regional crises were also addressed, including the prolonged political turmoil in Venezuela. The committee called for respecting the electoral results of July 2024, urged dialogue among political factions with international mediation, and demanded an immediate end to political repression. Haiti’s instability was similarly noted, with an emphasis on the disarmament of armed groups and the urgency of holding democratic elections to establish stability. 

A resolution also introduced the Electoral Observation and Assistance Core, designed to support electoral transparency in the region by dispatching observers and providing technical assistance to reinforce democratic processes.

The committee expressed  also its solidarity with Uruguay's Frente Amplio in their forthcoming elections, recognising their role in promoting social justice and equality. 

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to solidarity, cooperation, and coordinated  efforts to tackle the social, economic, and political challenges facing Latin America and the Caribbean, aiming for a future grounded in democracy and social equity.

On the eve of the Committee the Socialist International Women ( SIW) held a meeting, which focused on women’s political participation and advocated for structural changes to advance gender equality in political spheres.