Two weeks ago, the Nicaraguan government kicked out three U.S. citizens under trumped up charges (soon, I fear, Trumped Up will become formal adjective to be capitalized). So, why has the State Department been so quiet about it?
The Nicaraguan government’s expulsion of U.S. citizens—linked loosely to the military—found fertile ground in the country’s popular opinion. Surveys by LAPOP demonstrate high levels of distrust in Nicaragua toward the U.S. military—especially among those who support Ortega.
When Venezuelans elected Hugo Chavez president in 1998 they wanted a revolution. Instead, what they got was the 1970s and all its social, economic and political ills all over again, but this time on steroids.
The Three Amigos hit all the right notes in the summit in Ottawa, Canada this week—a fitting second act to the “bromantic” state visit of Prime Minister Trudeau to Washington in March. But Brexit and Trump cast a long shadow over Obama’s last NAFTA summit.
Whatever happens with the Brexit, it’s still worth considering some of its effects on the Western Hemisphere beyond the generalities. Among them: EU market access for Caribbean Commonwealth countries, trade deals for disaffected Mercosur members, and the Falklands/Malvinas.
In addition to bringing in an all-white male cabinet, Brazilian interim president Michel Temer has made his priorities clear as he downgrades the importance of human rights and looks to end constitutional spending requirements on health and education.
Richard Feinberg’s new book, Open For Business, draws on his recent, extensive research on the Cuban economy and U.S.-Cuban relations and on his travels on the island. The result is a multifaceted, balanced and personal portrayal of the island’s challenges and its people.
After his prompt, unexpected and unceremonial removal from Nicaragua, while there to conduct research on the transoceanic canal, Evan Ellis reflects on the events and what they mean for Nicaraguan democracy and U.S.-Nicaraguan relations.
When measuring corruption, the differences between two studies highlight that international perceptions of corruption do not always line up with on-the-ground experiences. While many may focus on the scandal-making headlines and business climate, surveys reveal the petty corruption afflicting the daily lives of citizens. They’re not the same.
Through a series of deft maneuvers, President Santos has helped ensure the acceptance and implementation of the peace accord, while still upholding Colombia’s constitution and respecting the will of its people. It’s driving the opposition nuts.
