David Dudenhoefer
David Dudenhoefer is a freelance journalist and communications consultant based in Lima, Peru, from where he covers several South American countries.
Articles written by David Dudenhoefer
Peru's Humala Charts Moderate Course
By David Dudenhoefer,
on ,
Briefing
During Peru's recent presidential election campaign, a chorus of politicians and pundits warned that a victory by leftist candidate Ollanta Humala would put the country on the same track as Venezuela under President Hugo Chavez. But since winning the second-round run-off and being sworn in as Peru's new president, Humala has surprised critics and supporters alike by the moderation of his rhetoric.
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Peru's Presidential Election Driven by Mistrust, Not Enthusiasm
By David Dudenhoefer,
on ,
Briefing
As Peruvians prepare to vote Sunday in a tight presidential race, the outcome will likely be determined by voters' fear and mistrust of the losing candidate rather than by enthusiasm for the winner and his or her platform. Both Keiko Fujimori and Ollanta Humala have striven to appeal to moderate voters, but their personal histories and past associations leave many a Peruvian worried and alienated. more
Peru's Mercurial Electorate Looks for More of the Same
By David Dudenhoefer,
on ,
Briefing
LIMA, Peru -- As Peru approaches general elections on April 10, polls show that voters are leaning toward continuity, which might be expected for a country with one of the world's fastest-growing economies. The leading contenders offer variations on the pro-business, open-market policies that have been the Peruvian status quo for two decades, but the Peruvian electorate's mercurial history makes anything seem possible. more
South American Indigenous Protests Highlight Development Tensions
By David Dudenhoefer,
on ,
World Politics Review
LIMA, Peru -- With the entire western Amazon experiencing oil and mining booms, indigenous groups in the Amazon Basin and the Andes have now stepped up their resistance to efforts to exploit natural resources in and nearby their communities. In response, the region's presidents have accused native leaders and environmentalists who help them of everything from terrorism to being U.S. lackeys. more
Earthquake Recovery Tops Piñera's Agenda in Chile
By David Dudenhoefer,
on ,
World Politics Review
SANTIAGO, Chile -- As conservative billionaire Sebastian Piñera was sworn in as Chile's 38th president on March 11, the Chilean congressional building swayed due to aftershocks from the earthquake that struck two weeks ago. The tremors were a reminder that Piñera's success as president will depend on his ability to lead an efficient recovery from the country's worst natural disaster in 50 years. more