Continuity and Variety of Neoliberalism: Reconsidering Latin America’s Pink Tide

In this article we critically engage with the term and concept of “post-neoliberalism”, delineate different meanings in the literature and arrive at the conclusion that the term leaves more questions open than it answers. In order to clarify the continuity and variety of neoliberalism in Latin America, we draw on literature that investigates the departure from and the persistence of neoliberalism. Barry Cannon`s work on the rise of the right in Latin America can be considered particularly useful to carefully study both social power relations within the various countries, and international power relations of great relevance to the region. In taking his arguments further we present and examine transnational neoliberal think tank networks that are active in Latin America in comparative perspective. We show the extent to which these networks have been developed across borders and investigate the key linkers within these networks. In comparison with European neoliberal networks, the role of think tank professionals as transnational coordinators stands out. In conclusion we situate the main neoliberal currents within the contemporary constellation of right wing political ideologies. The article strengthens a relational perspective in the study of varieties of neoliberalism and its counter-forces. Last but not least research desiderata are indicated with regard to think tank professionals and organized civil society and in the field of historical institutionalism related to the rise of transnational ideological power structures at large.