Unravelling the Missing Geopolitical Dimension in Latin American Universities

This chapter examines the historical, national and global forces shaping Latin American universities, focusing on their entanglement with colonial legacies, national aspirations and globalisation. Historically, these institutions have reinforced Eurocentric narratives and marginalised Indigenous and black populations, serving as gatekeepers of power and embedding systemic inequalities. Even in the republican era and beyond, traditional universities have prioritised Western ideals at the expense of Indigenous knowledge systems. In the contemporary context, globalisation and internationalisation have created both challenges and opportunities. Metrics-driven paradigms such as the ‘prestige economy’ and international rankings prioritise research productivity and global partnerships, reinforcing Anglo-Saxon frameworks. This marginalisation of local epistemologies exacerbates global inequalities in higher education. In the midst of these pressures, the chapter highlights decolonisation movements that advocate diverse epistemologies and seek to defy entrenched colonial structures. These efforts aim to redress historical imbalances, promote inclusivity and empower marginalised communities, especially Indigenous groups. The chapter envisions future Latin American universities that acknowledge their colonial past while actively shaping global trends. These institutions would combine academic excellence with a commitment to social justice, offering valuable insights into the global conversation on higher education.