Latin Americans’ embrace of technology has opened up new markets for e-commerce and a host of risks for traditional politicians—good for investors, a bumpy ride for politics as usual.
This essay analyzes the multiple, simultaneous challenges and electoral processes currently affecting the situation and political-economic orientation of nations comprising the PacificRim, or spine, of Latin America. It examines the likely collapse of the trans-pacific partnership, the uncertain future of the Pacific Alliance, upcoming presidential elections in the next two years in Chile, Ecuador, Colombia, and Mexico, and another phenomenon, to conclude that the combination of these factors produces the possibility for significant change in the political and economic orientation of the region in the coming two years. It argues that such change, in combination with initiatives by the People’s Republic of China
Under President Trump’s expansion of the Global Gag Rule, foreign NGOs that provide information about or support abortion are banned from receiving any form of U.S. global health assistance. The effects will extend beyond the right to choose.
Pan-hemispheric solidarity and unity has long been a dream of independence fighters, politicians, academics and dreamers. Given the state of the Americas today, you can forget about it.
The Americas has a lot at stake in the U.S. remaining in the Paris Agreement. Latin America and Caribbean countries and Canada should convince it to do so.
A lot has been written about the risks of the proposed Border Adjustment Tax to U.S. consumers, on the U.S. budget, and on the appreciation of the dollar. The worse consequence would be on U.S.-Mexico production chains.
China is now the second largest export destination for Latin American products and a key investor in the region. Is China about to set the rules for the new terms of trade?
China’s dramatic growth and influence in the region is challenging the capacity of Latin America and Caribbean governments to set their own economic course and develop sustainably.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s disrespect for the Mexican president and his ugly attacks against immigrants and—by implication—Latin American citizens have given Latin American leaders like Rafael Correa and Danilo Medina a moral platform they don’t deserve.
If President Trump abandons the global fight against climate change, it could leave Latin America more vulnerable to the effects of climate change and governments politically exposed.
