Presidentialism and Instability in Latin America: Understanding the Shortfalls of Constitutional Provisions & Checks and Balances

Abstract

This paper examines how the design of constitutional checks and balances impacts institutional stability and the success or failure of presidentialism in Latin America. Challenging early scholarship that predicted presidentialism would inevitably fail across the region, this study utilizes a ‘most similar systems’ comparative analysis of Brazil, Ecuador, and Peru. Specifically, it evaluates three key mechanisms of direct accountability: presidential impeachment, parliamentary dissolution, and the appointment and removal of state ministers. Ultimately, this paper argues that presidentialism thrives when constitutional design ensures independent state powers and accountability without compromising the continuity of the entire system of governance.