World Politics Review special reports are detailed compilations of recent WPR articles on a special theme. This report focuses on former President Hugo Chavez's legacy in Venezuela and the region.
Summary: Whoever succeeds Hugo Chavez as Venezuela's president will inherit a country deeply marked by the late leader's populist politics. At home, Chavez leaves behind a powerful political movement but many weakened government institutions. Regionally, the durability of the alliances he built on a foundation of cheap energy is uncertain. Meanwhile, the U.S. should seek opportunities to reframe its Venezuela policy for the post-Chavez era.
