Brookings: Projects - Latin America Initiative

Fiscal Policy Rules and Latin America: Lessons from the Crisis

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Fiscal policy has been mentioned as a key driver of the resilience that many large Latin American countries have seen during the global financial crisis. Mauricio Cárdenas and José Tessada examine Chile's fiscal rules and caution that a comprehensive fiscal strategy cannot focus solely on the short- and medium-term evolution of fiscal policy.

Colombia's Increasing Hemispheric Isolation

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

In recent months, Colombia has experienced increased isolation from its neighbors in the Western Hemisphere, due to border and military disputes, refusals to cooperate on economic and political fronts and disenchantment with Colombian President Alvaro Uribe. Diana Negroponte examines the reasons for this isolation, and possible remedies the Obama administration may apply.

Political Polarization in Latin America

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of the values measured in the 2005 World Values Survey was political ideology. Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the concept of political cohesion in Latin America and how ideology and political polarization can impact economic growth.

The United Nations Denounces the U.S. Embargo on Cuba … Again

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the 18th year in a row, the United Nations General Assembly unequivocally calls for the end of the U.S. embargo against Cuba. Ted Piccone examines the long-running dispute between the international community and the United States and offers suggestions for the future of U.S.-Cuba relations.

Climate Change and Latin America: The Long Way to Copenhagen

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Only a few regions in the world are more affected by climate change than Latin America. However the region lacks a common perspective and will not be heard in the U.S. Congress or in international deliberations in Copenhagen unless it unifies as a strong voice. Mauricio Cárdenas proposes a formal subgroup of several Latin American countries for cooperation on climate change and points to specific commitments they should consider.

Latin America: Time for Reform, Not for Complacency

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Latin America, a region that has faced both challenges and opportunities during the financial crisis, has had more economic growth than other areas of the world. Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the forces behind this economic success and the need for the region to seize this crisis as an opportunity to make important reforms to solve longstanding problems.

Courting Disaster in Honduras

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When the deposed president of Honduras, Manual Zelaya, returned to Tequcigalpa this week, he dramatically altered the ongoing political crisis in the country, writes Kevin Casas-Zamora. Casas-Zamora believes this new development makes reaching a political settlement more difficult, and says negotiated solutions should be expanded so that the November elections can be carried out as scheduled.

Between Hypocrisy and Narcoterrorism in Latin America

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A new agreement between the United States and Colombia will give the U.S. military access to seven existing facilities in order to carry out counternarcotics and counterinsurgency operations. Mauricio Cardenas and Kevin Casas-Zamora examine concerns among countries in Latin America regarding this move and argue that it is time to have meaningful conversation on a problem that affects the whole hemisphere.

Latin America's Infrastructure: Roads to the Future

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 09:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

July 21, 2009, 9:00 AM to 12:20 PM

On July 21, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings and the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) hosted a discussion of CAF’s recent report titled “Roads to the Future: Management of Infrastructure in Latin America.”

The Scouting Report: A New Partnership with Latin America

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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July 15, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

Brookings expert Mauricio Cárdenas, director of the Latin America Initiative at Brookings, and Fred Barbash, senior editor of Politico, took questions on U.S.-Latin America relations in this edition of the Scouting Report.

Brazil in the Global Crisis: Still a Rising Economic Superpower?

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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July 13, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

On July 13, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted a discussion on the recently released book, Brazil as an Economic Superpower? Understanding Brazil’s Changing Role in the Global Economy (Brookings Institution Press, 2009), edited by Brookings Political Economy Fellow Leonardo Martinez-Diaz and Lael Brainard, former vice president and director of Global Economy and Development at Brookings.

The Careful U.S. Diplomacy on Honduras

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora joined CFR.org's Bernard Gwertzman to discuss Honduran President Manuel Zelaya's ousting as well as how the United States has and should continue to respond. Casas-Zamora said that by putting diplomatic weight behind regional leaders, the Obama administration has demonstrated sensitivity to Latin American sensibilities.

Crisis in Honduras

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The June 28 military ousting of Honduran President Manuel Zelaya capped weeks of tension brought about by his attempt to amend the constitution to enable reelection. Kevin Casas-Zamora says this coup is a step backward for democracy in Latin America and he urges the United States to both pay close attention to the situation and to show friends and foes in the hemisphere that Washington sides with democracy.

Four Reflections on the Political Consequences of the Economic Crisis in Latin America

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora analyzes what is known and unknown about the global financial crisis and its effects on Latin America. Casas-Zamora explores four main issues regarding the political ramifications of the crisis and offers suggestions on how governments in the region should respond.

Latin America and the Economic Crisis: Designing and Implementing Stimulus Policies

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mauricio Cárdenas critiques the conventional wisdom that economic contractions are a thing of the past in Latin America and a growing belief the region will soon be out of the recession. He concludes that any recovery will be slow and there may be periods of sharp adjustment during the process.

Latin America and the Economic Crisis: An Address by Chilean President Michelle Bachelet

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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June 23, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:50 AM

On June 23, the Brookings Institution hosted Her Excellency Michelle Bachelet, president of the Republic of Chile, for a discussion of the Latin American countries and the economic measures they are taking to cope with the global financial crisis.

Crossroads on Cuba: Will Democracy or Sovereignty Prevail?

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone writes that the future of the Organization of American States (OAS) depends on how it manages the readmission of Cuba to the regional organization. Piccone urges member states not to depart from the organization’s core democratic and human rights principles.

The Merida Initiative and Central America: The Challenges of Containing Public Insecurity and Criminal Violence

Sun, 31 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The rising level of violence in Central America, as well as Mexico, has created sensational headlines and Hollywood style footage on the nightly news. Diana Negroponte examines the reasons for the growth in public insecurity and crime within El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras to determine an appropriate response.

The Global Economic Crisis and Mexico: Challenges for Recovery

Thu, 28 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As part of the "Global Economic Crisis" study series, Martinez- Diaz spoke at the Center for National as part of a discussion focused on the impact of the global economic crisis on stability in Mexico and what that means for the United States. He outlined five crucial economic challenges facing the country that its leadership must address in order to stimulate a full and sustainable recovery.

The Merida Initiative and Central America

Tue, 26 May 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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May 26, 2009, 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On May 26, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings and the Washington Office for Latin America hosted a discussion on the Central American component of the Merida Initiative, a 3-year program that provides funding for a wide-range of drug interdiction, prevention and intervention activities throughout Mexico, Central America and select Caribbean countries.

'Guatemalastan': How to Prevent a Failed State in our Midst

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora argues that the weakness of Guatemala as a state, the pervasive violence, the widespread corruption and the country’s strategic location for drug trafficking are creating a very dangerous cocktail. He believes reform is necessary but also notes it will be quite difficult.

The IMF’s Outlook for Latin America and the Caribbean

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

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May 21, 2009, 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM

Spillovers from a global crisis that began in advanced economies pose a severe test to Latin America and the Caribbean region. On May 21, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted Nicolás Eyzaguirre, director of the IMF’s Western Hemisphere Department, and Steve Phillips, also of the IMF, as they presented this year’s Regional Economic Outlook: Western Hemisphere report.

Obama off to Good Start in Latin America

Mon, 04 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Abe Lowenthal writes that among the important accomplishments by President Obama in his first 100 days has been a major step forward in U.S. relations with our neighbors in Latin America and the Caribbean. Lowenthal outlines policies the United States should pursue in the Americas and reminds the administration to keep it simple in the region.

Panama at the Polls: A Study in Political Weakness

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

On May 3, Panama will elect a new president. Kevin Casas-Zamora explores the campaigns of the incumbent and challenger and examines why Panama can be viewed as one of the better functioning and most stable polities in Latin America.

Obama at the Summit of the Americas

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

All things considered, the Summit was a success for the President and for the U.S. writes Kevin Casas-Zamora. He concludes that despite the dearth of immediate results, the mutation in tone under Obama will lead in due course to concrete changes in the U.S. relationship with the region.

Latin America's Challenges Beyond the Global Crisis

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 11:00:00 GMT

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April 24, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM

On April 24, the Brookings Institution and the Andean Development Corporation (CAF) hosted a discussion on the present and future impact of the financial crisis on Latin America.

Drugs and Democracy: Toward a Paradigm Shift

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora believes the report of the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy is a significant addition to an urgent conversation in the hemisphere. Casas-Zamora argues that, with a new U.S. administration far less hooked to the socially conservative attitudes that have long defined the debate, a frank discussion on drugs—both domestic and international—can at last begin.

A New Policy of Critical and Constructive Engagement with Cuba

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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April 22, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

As the White House and Congress struggle to reshape U.S. policy toward Cuba, the Brookings Institution launched a new report on U.S. Policy Toward a Cuba in Transition, entitled Cuba: A New Policy of Critical and Constructive Engagement. Brookings suggests a path forward on travel, trade, human rights and diplomatic engagement – all focused on helping Cubans define a democratic course for Cuba.

The Summit of the Americas and Regional Development Banks

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:51:07 GMT

Mauricio Cárdenas, director of the Latin America Initiative, says the focus of the fifth Summit of the Americas will be the global economic crisis. He also explains that the nations need to agree on strengthening regional development banks and that certain countries need open trade.

Previewing the Summit of the Americas

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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April 14, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM

The Obama administration faces a number of challenges in Latin America. The fifth Summit of the Americas offers leaders of the Western Hemisphere an opportunity to partner on a new and robust agenda that spans global economic, social, energy and climate change issues. On April 14, Brookings experts discussed the critical issues facing the leaders attending the summit and proposed recommendations for action.

The Fifth Summit of the Americas: Recommendations for Action

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Leaders of the Western Hemisphere gathered in Trinidad and Tobago on April 17-19, 2009 for the fifth Summit of the Americas. In a series of commentary articles focused on the summit's agenda and key challenges, Brookings experts discuss critical economic, social, energy and climate change issues facing the leaders attending the summit and propose recommendations for policy action.

Cuba: A New Policy of Critical and Constructive Engagement

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration announced changes in U.S. policy toward Cuba, including lifting the ban on some types of travel between the two nations. This change represents a major shift in U.S. policy. A new Brookings report recommends further short-term and longer-term changes.

@ Brookings Podcast: The Illegal Drug Trade; Obama's Trip to Turkey; and Cuba

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 13:55:00 GMT

In this week’s @ Brookings podcast, Latin America Initiative Director Mauricio Cárdenas and a panel of experts discuss a new report on the illegal drug trade and organized crime in Latin America; Governance Studies Vice President and Director Darrell West takes at look at President Obama’s meeting with leaders from Turkey, the G-20 and NATO; and a man on the street interview yields opinions on U.S.-Cuba relations.

The Summit of the Americas and Democracy

Fri, 10 Apr 2009 15:57:55 GMT

In previewing the fifth Summit of the Americas, Ted Piccone notes that popular support for democracy and good governance is widespread in Latin America and that the United States has an opportunity to fix its approach to democracy assistance.

The Scouting Report: Previewing the Summit of the Americas

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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April 08, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

The Obama administration faces any number of challenges in Latin America, from Cuba to Colombia, from Bolivia to Venezuela. Mauricio Cárdenas previewed the upcoming Summit of the Americas and took your questions on U.S. policy in the region during a live web chat with Politico's Fred Barbash.

Drugs and Democracy: Toward a Paradigm Shift

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 10:00:00 GMT

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April 06, 2009, 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM

On April 6, the Brookings Institution hosted former President of Brazil Fernando Henrique Cardoso and former President of Colombia César Gaviria for the U.S. release of the report “Drugs and Democracy: Toward a Paradigm Shift” by the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy. As co-presidents of the Commission, Presidents Cardoso and Gaviria presented findings of the report and discussed its recommendations for reducing harm caused by illegal narcotics to people, societies and public institutions.

The G-20 Statement: Implications for Latin America

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Economic conditions in emerging and developing countries are rapidly deteriorating and many are unable to implement recommended fiscal stimulus plans. Following the G-20 London Summit, Mauricio Cárdenas discusses the implications for Latin America and how multilateral development banks will play a role in economic recovery.

The Obama Administration and the Americas : Agenda for Change

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration inherits a daunting set of domestic and international policy challenges. The Obama Administration and the Americas, however, argues that the new administration should focus early and strategically on Latin America.

Brazil as an Economic Superpower? : Understanding Brazil's Changing Role in the Global Economy

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings gathered scholars and policymakers from Brazil, Europe, and the United States to examine the present state and likely future of Brazil’s economy. Their findings can be found in Brazil as an Economic Superpower? The authors’ analysis focuses particularly on five key topics: agribusiness, energy, trade, social investment, and multinational corporations.

The Obama Administration and the Americas: Agenda for Change

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 15:30:00 GMT

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April 01, 2009, 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM

On April 1, Brookings hosted a panel discussion on the upcoming Summit of the Americas and the recently released book, The Obama Administration and the Americas: Agenda for Change (Brookings Institution Press, 2009), edited by Brookings Nonresident Senior Fellow Abraham F. Lowenthal, Brookings Senior Fellow and Deputy Director of Foreign Policy Theodore J. Piccone and University of Oxford Fellow Laurence Whitehead.

El Salvador’s Democratic Test

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora analyzes the election of Mauricio Funes as El Salvador's new president. Casas-Zamora argues Funes faces an uphill battle in preaching moderation, but that the U.S. would do well to welcome his election and offer him tangible support for key social reforms.

The G-20 Summit and the Financial Crisis’ Impact on Latin America

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:39:12 GMT

As the global economic crisis continues, Mauricio Cárdenas says emerging economies in Latin America and elsewhere are hit especially hard. He says G-20 members must urge the multilateral banks to continue lending to the region and adds that without such assistance the crisis will only worsen.

The Limits to Fiscal Stimulus in Latin America and the Caribbean

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Despite calls for all countries to pursue stimulus efforts, not all countries are capable of enacting fiscal stimulus plans to foster economic growth during the global financial crisis. Mauricio Cárdenas and Julia Guerreiro discuss the current status of Latin American countries and consider the magnitude of fiscal stimulus efforts already underway.

The Scouting Report: Mexico's Economy

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:30:00 GMT

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March 11, 2009, 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM

Traditionally, according to economists, when the U.S. economy catches a cold, the Mexican economy catches pneumonia. Brookings expert Leonardo Martinez-Diaz and Senior Politico Editor Fred Barbash examined the problems plaguing the Mexican economy and potential policy solutions in an onlin chat.

The Violent Drug Market in Mexico and Lessons from Colombia

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Drug-related violence and the breakdown in security in Mexico have escalated to extraordinary levels over the past two years. Vanda Felbab-Brown examines this growing threat to civil society in Mexico, the spillover of crime into the U.S., how the situation compares to similar struggles in Colombia, and offers recommendations for a new strategy in the region.

Mexico’s Economy: Preparing for a Tough Year

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Mexico’s economy is facing a difficult year ahead as the global financial crisis deepens and the U.S. economy contracts further. Leonardo Martinez-Diaz offers recommendations to policymakers on how to address some of the immediate challenges and discusses the current state of the Mexican economy.

The Impact of the Financial Crisis on Low-income Countries

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

At a Brookings Institution discussion that featured IMF managing director Dominique Strauss-Kahn, Mauricio Cárdenas spoke on how the global financial crisis has impacted Latin America and addressed stimulus plans and challenges.

In Praise of Latin America's Irrelevance

Sat, 28 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora writes that Latin American irrelevance to U.S. policy since the end of the Cold War has been largely positive for the region. Though the Obama administration is likely to address some issues in the region, Casas-Zamora expects few major changes.

Roadmap for Engagement with Cuba

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Under the auspices of the project “U.S. Policy toward a Cuba in Transition,” nineteen distinguished academics, opinion leaders and diplomats committed themselves to seeking ways to improve U.S.-Cuba policy. A great lesson of democracy is that it cannot be imposed; it must come from within. The project members find that U.S. policy should encompass the political, economic and diplomatic tools that are needed to help the Cuban people find the political space that is essential to engage in and direct the politics of their country.

Only the U.S. Can Win War on Drugs

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Andrés Rozental and Stanley Weiss examine Mexico's difficult fight against drug cartels and how the continued high number of Americans using illicit drugs is helping push Mexico toward the brink. As Mexico fights its war on supply, Rozental and Weiss argue the U.S. must fulfill its responsibility to curb the war on demand while also considering gradual legalization of some substances.

Use "Smart Power" to Help Cubans

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Vicki Huddleston and Carlos Pascual argue that if President Obama wishes to alter U.S. policy toward Cuba, he has ample authority to do so. Huddleston and Pascual examine Obama's executive authority and note there is no reason the U.S. cannot reach out to the Cuban people and still retain the embargo as a symbol of concern about their government's failure to live up to international norms and human rights.

Hugo Chavez: A Lame Duck no More

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Having just celebrated his first decade in power to the tune of a national holiday, Venezuela’s President Hugo Chavez is here to stay, writes Kevin Casas-Zamora. Though Chavez remains a formidable tactician and a better-than-average strategist, Casas-Zamora notes there are obstacles ahead like oil prices that have plummeted, crime, and an anti-Chavez opposition that is less marginalized than in the past.

A Decade of Hugo Chávez

Sat, 14 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora examines Venezuela after 10 years of Hugo Chávez. Casas-Zamora argues that Venezuela remains under-developed even by Latin America standards and that recent history can show how perils may beset unjust democracies.

Latin America, the Global Financial Crisis and the Velocity of Business

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As the effects of the financial crisis continue to be felt across the globe, much of Latin America should be well prepared to weather the global financial storms with more opportunity for growth. In a speech at the Economist's 11th Annual Conference on Latin America Private Equity, held in Miami Florida, Mauricio Cárdenas discusses how the United States and Latin American countries can work together, not only on financing and aid, but also on issues like trade, migration, energy, and climate change.

Communications Embargo on Cuba: Let Them Surf, Not Float

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

While continuing to face dire economic challenges, Cuba has the potential to become a regional economic powerhouse. Kevin Casas-Zamora argues that one hurdle in particular keeps the Cuban economy from advancing: Cuba significantly lags behind the rest of Latin America and the Caribbean when it comes to the use information and communication technologies.

Latin America's Economic Outlook for 2009: No Time for Optimism

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

What is the forecast for Latin American economies in 2009? Brookings Fellow Mauricio Cardenas and Arturo Galindo of the Inter-American Development Bank explain why the Latin America economic outlook for 2009 does not appear particularly grim—and even offers the prospect of limited but continued growth—despite the sharp recession in the U.S., a key influencer on the region's economic growth patterns.

The Economics of Happiness in Latin America

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 11:00:00 GMT

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January 21, 2009, 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM

In spite of the challenges posed by poverty and high levels of inequality in Latin America, studies show its people are generally happy and continue to support market reforms and democracy. Yet, in the midst of the global financial crisis, will this trend shift in Latin America? On January 21, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted a discussion on the current trends in the region in terms of economic growth, inflation, unemployment and the financial crisis, based on the most recent evaluations from a new approach in economics: the economics of happiness.

Central America in 2009: Off the U.S. Radar

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

As Barack Obama prepares to take office, Central America is falling off the radar among the many accumulated problems to address, domestic and international. Abraham Lowenthal examines four Central American countries and compares their changes and growth. He recommends modest investments in the region for the new Obama administration.

Rethinking U.S.-Latin America Relations

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 11:02:13 GMT

Latin America Initiative Director Mauricio Cárdenas says the Partnership for the Americas Commission’s new report offers important recommendations and insights for the president-elect.

Nicaragua's Daniel Ortega: Not Another Mugabe, Please

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora argues the international community must put pressure on the increasingly autocratic regime of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega.

Es Hora de Reevaluar las Relaciones con América Latina

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

En una reciente transmisión de Radio Netherland, la emisora mundial de Holanda, se entrevistó a Leonardo Martínez-Díaz, subdirector de la “Comisión Alianza de las Américas” de la Institución Brookings, en relación al informe “Replanteando las Relaciones entre EE.UU. y América Latina: Una Alianza Hemisférica para un Mundo Turbulento”. Martínez-Díaz habla sobre el objetivo del informe de contribuir al debate en áreas de interés mutuo para EE.UU. y los países de América Latina y el Caribe, en medio de la oportunidad política que representa la toma de poder de la administración del presidente electo Barack Obama.

Re-Thinking U.S.-Latin American Relations

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With the opportunity of a new U.S. administration and Congress, Brookings’s Partnership for the Americas Commission released its final report noting the need for a new hemispheric partnership to address key transnational challenges and providing specific policy recommendations on five key areas: energy and climate change, migration, trade, organized crime and drug trafficking and U.S.-Cuban relations.

Re-Thinking U.S.-Latin American Relations: A Hemispheric Partnership for a Turbulent World

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:30:00 GMT

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November 24, 2008, 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM

On November 24, the Brookings Institution hosted the Partnership for the Americas Commission for the release of their report, “Re-thinking U.S.-Latin American Relations: A Hemispheric Partnership for a Turbulent World," which offers a set of policy recommendations to the next U.S. administration to meet the challenges facing the U.S. and Latin America, from economic and poverty policies to security, foreign policy and energy.

Pay Attention to Latin America

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In a new op-ed outlining the recommendations by Brookings’s Partnership for the Americas Commission, co-chairs Ernesto Zedillo and Thomas Pickering detail the need for stronger hemispheric relations and outline five areas for potential policy partnerships for the next administration.

Latin America: Coming of Age

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Apart from the new pressures of the global financial crisis, the countries of Latin America are enjoying a period of economic growth, prosperity, and stable democracies. Yet these countries are also experiencing a great demographic change that will place more demand on their economies and governments. Leonardo Martinez-Diaz explains what these trends will mean for the region.

Global Financial Crisis: Is Brazil a Bystander?

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In the wake of the global financial crisis, President of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, has expressed confidence in the Brazilian economy to withstand a slowdown. Mauricio Cardenas discusses the fundamentals of the Brazilian economy and analyzes whether Brazil is likely to maintain its economic strength.

Lessons from Another Crisis: Why Providing Debt Relief for Households is Not a Good Idea

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As the financial crisis has widened, some analysts have asked the U.S. government to consider debt relief for American families who are struggling with mortgages they can no longer afford. Mauricio Cardenas explains how a previous crisis in Colombia offers lessons for the U.S. and argues that U.S. government debt relief is a bad idea.

Can Latin American Economies Deflect the Financial Crisis?

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The U.S. financial crisis has profound implications for emerging markets given the integrated and global nature of today’s economy. Mauricio Cardenas, director of Brookings’s Latin America Initiative, examines the likely impact on Latin American economies and discusses how they might deflect some of the aftershocks from the U.S. economic crisis.

A Conversation on Colombia with President Alvaro Uribe Vélez

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 08:30:00 GMT

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September 19, 2008, 8:30 AM to 10:00 AM

On September 19, the Latin America Initiative at Brookings hosted a conversation with President Alvaro Uribe Vélez of Colombia. President Uribe discussed the U.S.-Colombia relationship, including economic and security challenges including his administration’s fight against the illegal drug trade and prospects for the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement.

Why the Discomfort Over Free Trade

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Kevin Casas-Zamora argues that if free trade is to succeed, advocates must address the real problems trade liberalization creates for many in the developing world. Developing nations, now increasingly important actors in the global economy, likewise deserve a larger role in governing the system of global trade.

The Role of Education in Cuba's Future

Thu, 07 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Andy Gomez demonstrates how the role of education in the future of Cuba will be one of the leading factors in transforming the psychological values and attitudes of the population in order to develop a civil society and eventually sustain a democratic state.

Crime in Latin America

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Brookings expert Kevin Casas-Zamora writes that Latin American democracies must deal seriously with the mounting casualties of violence across the continent. He believes a comprehensive policy of reform among police forces, and the introduction of modern technology as well as more investment in civil society, can create lasting and sustainable solutions to crime.

Mauricio Cárdenas to Direct Latin America Initiative at Brookings

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:08:29 GMT

Mauricio Cárdenas, a Colombian economist, will join the Brookings Institution in August 2008 as a senior fellow and director of the Institution’s new Latin America Initiative, Brookings President Strobe Talbott announced.

Who Will Help Cuba Exploit its Offshore Oil Wealth?

Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Vicki Huddleston discusses Cuba's plans to start drilling off the country's coast in order to access billions of barrels of crude oil. Huddleston says that United States companies should get involved and believes continuing to isolate the U.S. from Cuba in a competitive oil market will only hurt in the long run.

Good Intentions, Bad Outcomes : Social Policy, Informality, and Economic Growth in Mexico

Sun, 01 Jun 2008 12:00:00 GMT

This book argues that incoherent social programs significantly contribute to Mexico's state of affairs and it suggests reforms to improve the situation.

Technology, Public Policy, and the Emergence of Brazilian Multinationals

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper, Edmund Amann examines the role of technology, innovation, and public policy in the development of some of Brazil’s largest and most internationalized firms.

Brazil's Trade Policy: Old and New Issues

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper, Mauricio Moreira discusses Brazil’s trade agenda and identifies key reforms necessary if the country is to fully enjoy the growth and welfare benefits of trade.

Brazil as an International Energy Player

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper, Ricardo Sennes and Thais Narciso analyze the current Brazilian energy matrix in terms of oil, natural gas, hydropower and biofuels, as well as the policies and market regulations that affect energy supply.

Brazil's Trade Policy: Moving Away From Old Paradigms

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper, Pedro da Motta Veiga analyzes key shifts in Brazil’s trade policy and examines the tensions between forces pressing for more trade liberalization and those favoring a protectionist paradigm.

Brazil: The Challenges of Becoming an Agricultural Superpower

Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this paper, Geraldo Barros provides an overview of Brazil’s agro-industrial sector and examines the challenges Brazil faces in becoming an agricultural superpower. These challenges include restoring the investment pattern in infrastructure, science and technology, and human capital of previous decades.

Good Intentions, Bad Outcomes: Social Policy, Informality and Economic Growth in Mexico

Tue, 13 May 2008 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

May 13, 2008, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

The Wolfensohn Center for Development hosted a discussion with Santiago Levy, nonresident senior fellow and former deputy minister of finance of Mexico, about his new book, which recommends that in order to help bring Mexico’s poor out of poverty the country’s social programs should be improved to increase productivity, workers’ wages, and overall economic growth.

What Impact Are Recent Reforms Having on Cuba's Economy?

Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In this article from Inter-American Dialogues's America Advisor, Vicki Huddleston discusses the recent economic reforms in Cuba following the transition in leadership from Fidel Castro to his brother Raul. She states that the reforms, if continued, will lead to more personal freedoms and better lives for Cuban citizens.

Bolivar's Ghosts in Latin America

Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Ted Piccone discusses whether Latin America is the home of free-market democracy or the bastion of populist autocracy. Piccone argues that it is both, and many things in between. To further understand and deal with these issues, he believes that Washington needs to develop new policies toward the region.

Brazil As An Economic Superpower? Understanding Brazil’s Changing Role In The Global Economy

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

April 28, 2008, 12:00 PM to 12:00

On April 28, the Global Economy and Development Program hosted a conference to explore four of Brazil’s key economic-policy challenges. Whatever the role Brazil chooses to play in the global economy will matter for the United States and other countries in the region.

Showdown on U.S.-Colombia FTA

Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A blend of policy, process and politics may doom the free trade agreement between the United States and Colombia. Paul Blustein argues that President Bush's difficulty persuading Congress to ratify the pact may finally teach trade negotiators that bilateral trade agreements can be a lot more trouble than they’re worth.

Cuba 2010: Worst-case Scenario Could Become Reality

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

As Cuba’s transition from Fidel Castro continues, Vicki Huddleston hypothesizes what the country may look like in 2010 following further changes at the leadership level. She states that one thing likely to remain constant “is the enmity between Washington and Havana.”

Cuba Embargo's Usefulness Has Run Its Course

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Raul Castro’s ascent to power is a reminder that the Cuban revolution likely has survived despite U.S. efforts to bring about the contrary. Vicki Huddleston asserts that continued U.S. economic and diplomatic isolation of Cuba cannot bring about the end of the revolution, but that “if we remove the barriers to communication, we will speed the forces of change.”

Understanding Cuba's Leadership

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 08:30:00 GMT

Event Information:

March 04, 2008, 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM

On March 4, 2008, Brookings hosted its second U.S.-Cuba simulation exercise, focusing on the internal dynamics, motivations, and decision-making processes of Cuba’s leadership. With the date of the meeting following on the heels of Fidel Castro’s decision to formally step down from power, the exercise called on participants to put themselves in the shoes of an inner circle of advisers to Raul Castro as they meet to assess possible political and economic strategies for the next five years.

Can Raúl Castro Revive Cuba's Private Sector?

Tue, 04 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

No single U.S. move would have a greater impact on the direction of Cuban reform than the lifting of travel, trade and financial restrictions, argues Raj Desai. Although Washington's options are severely limited by the current political-economic mood in Latin America, the United States can clear a path for a reformist Cuba to seek its own solutions and to understand the tradeoffs involved in different reform strategies.

The Cuban Economy After Castro

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

With Fidel Castro’s resignation as president of Cuba, what is next for the Cuban economy under new leadership? Can Cuban industry reform and what are the historical lessons the new leadership should examine before tackling economic policy changes? Raj Desai examines related issues.

A Dialogue: Engaging the Latin American World

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

In October and November of 2007, Brookings Scholars Michael O'Hanlon, Diana Negroponte and Leonardo Martinez-Diaz had an e-mail exchange with prominent Latin American scholars with a variety of perspectives to discuss the issues facing Latin America.

Mexico's Economic Challenges

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Reviewing President Felipe Calderon's report to Mexico's Congress, Leonardo Martinez-Diaz argues that Calderon's ambitious plans to reform his nation's economy will come to little unless his government can deliver on tax reform.

La protección social en salud al frente de las políticas de reducción de la pobreza

Thu, 15 Feb 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Paper by Amanda Glassman (2/15/07)

Progress Against Poverty: Sustaining Mexico's Progresa-Oportunidades Program

Mon, 08 Jan 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Event Information:

January 08, 2007, 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM

The Wolfensohn Center for Development hosted a discussion with Santiago Levy, former Mexican Deputy Minister of Finance, about his book Progress Against Poverty. Levy analyzed the factors contributing to the success of the program and the challenges in further implementation.

Progress Against Poverty : Sustaining Mexico's Progresa-Oportunidades Program

Wed, 01 Nov 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Santiago Levy—the main architect of Progresa-Oportunidades—offers his unique perspective on the development of the program, the reasons for its success, the challenges it faces, and its applicability in other nations.

Restoring Growth in Puerto Rico : Overview and Policy Options

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In this innovative new book, economists from U.S. and Puerto Rican institutions address a range of major policy issues affecting the island's economic development.

Key Economic and Social Challenges for Latin America: Perspectives from Recent Studies

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 GMT

David de Ferranti paper

The Economy of Puerto Rico : Restoring Growth

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 GMT

In this innovative new book, economists from U.S. and Puerto Rican institutions address a range of major policy issues affecting the island’s economic development.

Latin American Urban Violence as a Development Concern: Towards a Framework for Violence Reduction

Sun, 01 Jan 2006 00:00:00 GMT

Article by Caroline Moser and Cathy McIlwaine

Latin America is Far From Rejecting Democracy

Mon, 02 Aug 2004 00:00:00 GMT

Opinion by Carol Graham, London Financial Times (8/2/04)