In Colombia, security is the dominant issue. Rising violence and the growing strength of armed groups have made the continuation of left-wing rule uncertain. In the US, attention is focused on whether voter dissatisfaction with President Trump’s policies will translate into Democratic gains in the mid-term elections. In Brazil, another contest between Lula and the Bolsonaro political movement appears likely, although Jair Bolsonaro himself remains unable to run.

There is a considerable risk of political violence surrounding the Colombian election, while all three contests could see defeated candidates or their supporters questioning the legitimacy of the results, reflecting tensions that have emerged in recent election cycles.