Latin America Commentary & Analysis

All commentary & analysis

New Atlanticist

Dec 4, 2020

Boats over troubled waters: Caribbean nations struggle with response to Venezuelan migration crisis

By Angela Chávez Keri and Beatriz Godoy Rivas

Given the small territory and population size of these island nations, the flow of migrants is disproportionately impacting their societies, and it is testing the weight of their institutions and resources, while also enhancing domestic issues like inequality and poverty.

Caribbean Coronavirus

New Atlanticist

Dec 3, 2020

A budget roils a nation. What’s happening in Guatemala?

By María Fernanda Bozmoski

The Guatemalan Congress went up in smoke, literally, on November 21, when massive protests broke out against a draft budget that was negotiated behind closed doors, with limited input from civil society, and that proposed cuts in funding for COVID-19 and human rights agencies as the country battles the virus, unemployment, and corruption.

Central America Coronavirus

New Atlanticist

Nov 25, 2020

What a Biden presidency means for US-Colombia relations

By Camila Hernandez and Daniel Payares-Montoya

On repeated occasions, President-elect Biden has characterized Colombia as the “keystone” of US foreign policy toward Latin America and the Caribbean, maintaining that, if elected president, restoring the alliance between the United States and Colombia will be among his top foreign policy priorities.

Colombia Corruption

New Atlanticist

Nov 24, 2020

IDB President Mauricio Claver-Carone: Latin America wants greater US involvement and consensus

By Larry Luxner

Mauricio Claver-Carone, the first US citizen to lead the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) in its sixty-one-year history, highlighted the importance of additional IDB assistance for Latin America and the Caribbean as the region confronts the enormous challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its resulting economic upheaval, with US support central to this cause.

Americas Economy & Business

New Atlanticist

Nov 12, 2020

Complex identities: Kamala Harris and US foreign policy towards the Caribbean

By Vicki Assevero

Due to both her experience and her story, Kamala Devi Harris, alongside President-elect Joe Biden, provides an important new symbol of what the United States stands for in the world and could usher in a new era for US-Caribbean relations.

Caribbean Climate Change & Climate Action

New Atlanticist

Nov 10, 2020

¡Basta Ya! How pandemic-related corruption calls for a new social contract in Panama

By Cristina Guevara

In order for Panama to emerge from the pandemic with inclusive and sustainable growth, the country needs a new social contract that combats corruption and provides equal opportunities for everyone.

Corruption Latin America

New Atlanticist

Nov 5, 2020

Bolivia emerges from its electoral turbulence

By Gabriella Cova

As Arce prepares to begin his term on November 8, he must consider Bolivia’s priorities and relationships in the region in order to secure prosperity for the nation and a continued commitment to upholding democracy.

Elections Latin America

Elections 2020

Oct 28, 2020

Five big questions as America votes: Latin America

By Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center

Given its proximity to the United States, an economically vibrant and healthy Latin America is in the interest of the next US administration. Now, more than ever, it is important for the United States to lean in on Latin America as a strategic partner and continue growing its existing economic, social, and political ties for mutual benefit.

Coronavirus Democratic Transitions

New Atlanticist

Oct 27, 2020

DFC Caribbean trip demonstrates new US emphasis on region

By Vicki Assevero

Optimizing economic opportunity in our hemisphere remains the best bulwark against insecurity, illicit activities, and violence. The United States’ renewed interest in promoting commercial investment and opportunities are positive signs that real progress can be made in this vital region.

Caribbean Latin America

New Atlanticist

Oct 23, 2020

Why Chile could be a canary in the coal mine for wealthy economies

By Daniel Payares-Montoya

While the new constitution could help jumpstart efforts to alleviate many of the inequalities in Chilean society, the struggle to get to this point should give caution to other countries that have left structural inequalities unaddressed.

Elections Inclusive Growth