A 2017 Survey Found Paraguay

Overview of the 2017 Survey on Paraguay

A nationwide poll conducted in 2017 examined the political attitudes of Paraguayan voters, focusing on trust in institutions, perceptions of economic progress, and reactions to recent social conflicts. The study, commissioned by a leading research institute, sampled over 2,500 adults across urban and rural regions, providing a comprehensive snapshot of public opinion during a pivotal moment in the country’s recent history.

Key Findings on Voter Sentiment

The 2017 survey revealed several trends that shaped Paraguay’s political landscape:

Institutional Trust: Only 38% of respondents expressed confidence in the national government, while 57% said they trusted local authorities more than the central administration.
Economic Outlook: A majority (62%) believed the economy was stagnant, citing low wages and limited job opportunities as primary concerns.
Political Engagement: Voter turnout intentions for the upcoming elections were high, with 71% indicating they planned to vote, reflecting a renewed interest in civic participation.

Land Rights Conflict and Its Political Impact

One of the most contentious issues addressed in the survey was the ongoing dispute over land rights. In 2016, a violent confrontation erupted between indigenous communities and private landowners in the Chaco region. The clash resulted in dozens of injuries and heightened tensions nationwide.

Survey respondents were asked whether the conflict influenced their view of the former President Fernando Lugo, who had been removed from office in 2012 following a political crisis. The results showed:

45% believed that the land‑rights violence contributed to the 2012 coup that ousted Lugo.
30% felt the conflict demonstrated the government's failure to protect vulnerable populations.
25% indicated that the events were unrelated to the earlier political turnover.

These figures suggest that while a significant portion of the electorate links the land dispute to the earlier coup, a majority still perceives other factors—such as constitutional maneuvers and party politics—as more decisive in Lugo’s removal.

Regional Differences in Opinion

The survey highlighted stark contrasts between Paraguay’s regions:

Asunción and Central Departments: Voters expressed higher confidence in the judiciary (45%) and were more critical of the land‑rights conflict, viewing it as an isolated incident.
Chaco and Northern Departments: Residents showed greater solidarity with indigenous groups, with 68% supporting stronger land‑ownership protections.
Southern Agricultural Zones: Farmers prioritized economic stability, with 71% emphasizing the need for continued investment in agribusiness.