Democracy and civil-military relations in Brazil and Chile: reflections of two negotiated transitions

Abstract

This article proposes a comparative analysis of civil-military relations in Brazil and Chile from their redemocratization processes. The article aims to investigate the impact that these different transitions had on civil-military relations during the following governments within a period of twenty years. For this purpose, case study and comparative history methods are used, supported by documentary and bibliographical research. The analysis relies on the federal constitutions of both countries, in addition to the productions of several specialists in the subject. In conclusion, the study identifies that the transition model adopted by both countries guaranteed legal prerogatives that impede the advancement of civil control. With this, it is intended to contribute to a better understanding of the civil-military relations of the countries of the Southern Cone, which, for the most part, still present na elevated degree of political action in the Armed Forces.