The 2025 Philadelphia Tango Festival will take place over Memorial Day Weekend, from Friday, May 23 through Monday, May 26. Join the Philadelphia Argentine Tango School (PATS), sponsor of this annual event, and tango enthusiasts from around the region and around the world for a weekend of music, dance, and celebration.

The Pan American Association of Philadelphia joins the world in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, the first Pope from Latin America.

Daniel Noboa, the 37 year old current president of Ecuador, failed to get a plurality of the votes in last Sunday's elections. Therefore, he will have to, once again, face Luisa Gonzalez, a left of center candidate closely allied with former President Rafael Correa, in a runoff election on April 13 th.

On March 19, 2025, at 4:00 PM, Temple University Beasley School of Law will host the Annual Judge Nelson A. Díaz Professorship Series, focusing on Latino Civil Rights: Contributions and Challenges.

DECISION POINT FOR VENEZUELA SANCTIONS

By P. Michael McKinley and Patrick Duddy - November 17, 2023

Venezuela is at a crossroads. The carefully choreographed announcement on October 17 of an agreement between the Maduro government and the opposition Unitary Platform on a roadmap for democratic presidential elections in 2024, accompanied the next day by an easing of US sanctions, unraveled in less than two weeks.

The United States last Wednesday offered a $5 million reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators of the assassination of Ecuador presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

So says it’s current President, Gustavo Petro, the first left-of-center politician ever elected to the office.

Cuba will not do the Wagner waltz:

The Cuban Ambassador to Russia stated two weeks ago that Cuba would not oppose the participation of its citizens in the Russian-Ukrainian war.

Keeping the promise that he made, that he would return to Brazil in March 2023, former President Jairo Bolsonaro arrived in Brasilia on March 30th, after a three-month, self-imposed exile.

The Pan American Association of Philadelphia mourns the passing of Diego Castellanos, the host of "Puerto Rican Panorama" for more than four decades. He was born in Puerto Rico but spent most of his adult life in the Delaware Valley area. He was very active in the Latino community of Philadelphia and played a central role in the annual Puerto Rican Parade.

Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine raises urgent questions about the full scope and nature of Russian activities in the Americas. While there is little reason to believe that Russia views the Americas as a core national interest, nonetheless ongoing activities across the region are proving incompatible with long-standing efforts to build democracy. How does Russia view the Americas? What priorities is Moscow pursuing? And where do relations go from here?

Please join the Council of the Americas for a virtual discussion with industry, regulatory, and human rights representatives on policy implications of exploding interest in the crypto space across the Americas.

The Consulate General of Panama in Philadelphia invites you to an afternoon enjoying Panamanian fashion music and art.

Charley was born in Philadelphia on February 18, 1924 and died on July 2, 2019. He is survived by his wife Gloria and his children Kristian, David and Stephen Shreiner.

Peter Hakim, of the Inter-American Dialogue, examines what he calls the “high cost of tampering with NAFTA.” It raises serious concerns about the future of free trade and US relations with Latin America:

“For sure, other Latin American nations have been watching closely. Even though China has replaced the United States as the largest trade partner of many countries of the hemisphere, most Latin American economies are still heavily reliant on US trade and investment (though assuredly not to the extent of Mexico or Canada). And many nations have established high levels of cooperation with the US on other fronts. But governments and their citizens across Latin America have become increasingly wary and mistrustful of the Trump administration. In the short run, they—like Mexico—have few options other than continuing to work with Washington and accommodate to its current policies in the region. But the region is already searching hard for alternatives, and will surely find them if the current US agenda for the Americas persists. By trying to impose its will on Mexico and the rest of Latin America, often in disagreeable, offensive ways, the Trump government is steadily losing its already paper thin credibility in the region.”

Following is the statement of the Pan American Association on the recent attack to a synagogue in Pittsburgh

Peter Hakim, of the Inter-American Dialogue, examines what he calls the “high cost of tampering with NAFTA.” It raises serious concerns about the future of free trade and US relations with Latin America:

“For sure, other Latin American nations have been watching closely. Even though China has replaced the United States as the largest trade partner of many countries of the hemisphere, most Latin American economies are still heavily reliant on US trade and investment (though assuredly not to the extent of Mexico or Canada). And many nations have established high levels of cooperation with the US on other fronts. But governments and their citizens across Latin America have become increasingly wary and mistrustful of the Trump administration. In the short run, they—like Mexico—have few options other than continuing to work with Washington and accommodate to its current policies in the region. But the region is already searching hard for alternatives, and will surely find them if the current US agenda for the Americas persists. By trying to impose its will on Mexico and the rest of Latin America, often in disagreeable, offensive ways, the Trump government is steadily losing its already paper thin credibility in the region.”

Written by Alejandro José Gallard Prío, Former Honorary Consul of Nicaragua in Philadelphia

One of Mexico's leading intellectuals, Enrique Krauze, comments on the future of democracy in his country

Taking an historical and comparative perspective, Venezuelan scholar Eduardo Hausmann writes on how to rebuild democracy in Venezuela. Caution: no magic formula, but history offers examples of how it was done.

A report by the National Endowment for Democracy warns:

“Together with Beijing’s attempts to project an image of itself as an accommodating power that shares similar development and modernization goals with the developing world, this soft power approach has enabled China to earn the sympathies of political elites across Latin America. The perception among these enthusiastic political elites that China would make an attractive partner rests primarily on its economic development over the past four decades, its ability to weather the global financial crisis virtually untouched, and its ever-growing influence in the international arena. The prospect that China can provide economic opportunities that other international partners cannot offer, along with the United States’ diminishing presence in the region, is also a decisive factor behind Beijing’s new, fresh, and friendly image in Latin America.”

Mexico and Canada now have an alternative to trade with the United States, giving them more leverage in contentious NAFTA talks.

Brazil's president has described a deepening, nationwide crisis of insecurity as a "national emergency” that must be addressed.

Upcoming presidential elections in Brazil and Mexico could reshape politics in Latin America and deeply affect relations with the United States.

The immense impact of Hispanics in the United States, the 5 sectors in which they are prominent: business, food, music, education, politics.

Cities and metro areas in the United States and Mexico are crafting their own metro-to-metro trade arrangements. May of these dwarf in scale and impact the policy decisions made at the national level.

Frank Mora, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Latin America and speaker at the Pan American Association, discusses why Trump’s suggestion of US military intervention in Venezuela is a bad idea.

A detailed analysis of the economic and environmental costs of a border wall. The author, Vanda Felbab-Brown, is a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution. She conducted field research at the border.

Chile is rapidly expanding its clean energy grid, which includes vast solar fields, wind farms, and thermal. Its energy transformation is one of the most ambitious in Latin America, a region that is decisively moving beyond fossil fuels.

Chris Sabatini comments on the absence of policy for Latin America:

“But what we see now under the administration of President Donald J. Trump is something completely different: not the lack of attention of previous administrations, but a complete and utter vacuum of comprehensive diplomatic policy, not just toward the region as a whole (for the reason mentioned above) but within the region.”

Mexico’s former ambassador to China, Jorge Guajardo, comments on the unpleasant effect of Trump on Mexican politics.

The top American diplomat for counternarcotics policy, William Brownfield, is apparently resigning. Brownfield spoke at the Pan American Association in October, 2013.

From kidnapping and murder to money laundering and misuse of public funds, contemporary Latin American leaders have been investigated for a broad range of crimes, underscoring the structural challenges the region faces in the ongoing struggle to end the impunity enjoyed by its political elite.

“But corruption’s roots run so deep in Brazil that, like a tree as old as the garden it grows in, uprooting it can cause tremendous upheaval. Mr. da Silva’s once unthinkable decline is just one expression of the turmoil reaching across Brazil. A stunning number of establishment political figures have been implicated, leaving the world’s fifth most populous country with few credible leaders. Political infighting and public distrust are skyrocketing. So is polarization, as citizens increasingly blame the other side for their country’s problems.”

Ambassador William Brownfield, a very distinguished diplomat, is being considered for Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs. Brownfield has spoken at the Pan American Association.

Peru fears Venezuela may be headed toward civil war as a political crisis deepens and its economy implodes under the rule of socialist Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Peru's foreign minister told Reuters on Wednesday.

What should the Brazilian Army do in the absence of threats to the country? Perhaps the answer is to assume more police type missions, which it is increasingly and reluctantly doing. This is an important question that affects not only Brazil’s, but a number of Latin American military institutions.

A sobering assessment of trade relations:
“What happened to free trade? The United States has free trade agreements with Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Peru, and Central America, yet China has still managed to establish itself as a major economic presence in these countries. Despite the lack of constraints and the expectation that trade flows would jump dramatically between the U.S. and its southern neighbors, China has either displaced the U.S. (in Chile and Peru) or begun to pose a threat to its economic dominance (in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean). President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership sends an additional signal to Latin America that the U.S. is retreating from the world stage. The door is open for China and other emerging powers to fill the void and become the new hegemonic economic power in the region.”

Article describes how a FARC commander, a man of bourgeois taste, prepares for peace after years of war. Provides valuable insights into the contradictions and brutalities of Colombia’s conflict.

Three decades after this tiny Central American nation became the prize in a Cold War battle with Washington, Russia is once again planting its flag in Nicaragua. Over the past two years, the Russian government has added muscle to its security partnership here, selling tanks and weapons, sending troops, and building facilities intended to train Central American forces to fight drug trafficking.

A strong, stable Mexican economy, led by a government committed to working with the US, is clearly in America’s interests. Trump would be well advised to work quickly to ensure that the NAFTA renegotiations he has demanded generate this outcome.

Enrique Krauze, one of Mexico’s leading intellectuals, reflects on the impact of the US-Mexican war of 1846: “The United States invasion of Mexico in 1846 inflicted a painful wound that, in the 170 years that followed, turned into a scar. Donald Trump has torn it open again…But the best and most just reparation would be American immigration reform that could open the road to citizenship for the descendants of those Mexicans who suffered the unjust loss of half their territory.”

A remarkable project is underway in Colombia. The signing of the contracts for the Colombia Workforce Social Impact Bond (SIB) will target skills training and employment support to vulnerable, unemployed individuals in Bogotá, Cali, and Pereira.

Corn producers in the US are concerned that the Trump administration’s policy will affect corn exports to Mexico. “Now corn has taken on a new role — as a powerful lever for Mexican officials in the run-up to talks over Nafta, the North American Free Trade Agreement. The reason: Much of the corn that Mexico consumes comes from the United States, making it America’s top agricultural export to its southern neighbor. And even though President Trump appears to be pulling back from his vows to completely overhaul Nafta, Mexico has taken his threats to heart and has begun flexing its own muscle. The Mexican government is exploring buying its corn elsewhere — including Argentina or Brazil — as well as increasing domestic production. In a fit of political pique, a Mexican senator even submitted a bill to eliminate corn purchases from the United States within three years.”

A distinguished scholar comments:
“To this day, a minority of Latin Americans remain staunchly anti-American. Their attitude toward the United States is ideological; there is nothing the country could do to change their dislike of it. But the rest of Latin America is not ideological but transactional. In dealing with the United States, these majorities respond to reciprocity. When they perceive the United States as treating them fairly and equally — as an interested partner more than as a detached or distrustful boss — they respond in kind. The new United States foreign policy, with its xenophobic protectionism aptly symbolized by Mr. Trump’s promised wall on the Mexican border, will turn these supporters into antagonists. Where applied, this policy will provoke a nationalist backlash and polarization. That much is clear. Mr. Trump may not see it, but the writing is on the wall — his wall.”

Weak labor-supply growth in Mexico and other Latin American countries means immigration to the U.S. of young, low-skilled workers will continue to slow until it reaches zero in 2050—even without the implementation of Trump’s border policies…In light of the changing demographics of migrant-sending nations, the current emphasis of the U.S. government on further intensifying immigration enforcement is puzzling. Why build a wall to stop an immigration surge that has largely already occurred?

Article explores the similarity between Argentina’s Juan Peron and Donald Trump: both are called authoritarian populists. Moreover, “Even if Trumpism remains an authoritarian response within democracy — one that doesn’t dissolve the institution altogether, as it has been the historical case in Latin America — an intolerant xenophobe holding the greatest megaphone on earth threatens the integrity of other representative democracies and may yet usher in more Trumps.”

Argentina, which is poised to take over the leadership of the G20 group of developed and developing nations later this year, has warned Donald Trump that protectionist trade strategies do not work. Nicolás Dujovne, the country’s finance minister, said that Argentina’s own recent anti-free trade policies showed that closing borders did more harm than good. “We’ve been there,” Dujovne told the Guardian. “Protectionism and nationalism will not make your economy richer and will not accelerate growth. It will increase stagnation and poverty.”

Lima now has the best cuisine in the world, according to new ranking. Of the world’s 50 best restaurants 3 are in Lima, outpacing New York, London, and Mexico City.

Colombia is famous for the charm of its Spanish colonial cities and towns. Salento is a jewel in the coffee growing region.

Argentina is poised to become a world class producer of lithium. “If all of the projects go ahead, Argentina's annual output of the metal used in electric-vehicle batteries would surge to 165,000 metric tons, or about 45 per cent of global supply, according to government projections. Prices will increase as much as 15 per cent this year.”

Bad news. Cocaine production is up in Colombia and so is consumption in the US. “This surge in consumption can be traced directly to Colombia’s bumper harvest. The country’s illegal coca crop doubled between 2013 and 2015, reaching nearly 400,000 acres. That’s almost twice as much as the combined output of Peru and Bolivia, the world’s second- and third-largest producers.”

The U.S. and Mexican auto sectors have become so intertwined since the inception of the North American Free Trade Agreement that the industry itself is baffled as to how it would wean itself off the brisk cross-border trade in car parts. President Donald Trump has vowed to renegotiate the 23-year-old trade pact, a move he says would shift plants — and jobs — back to the United States, but it’s not clear that even tearing up NAFTA and existing supply chains would do that. The automotive industry is at the heart of U.S.-Mexico trade — and not just in finished vehicles. Steering wheels, dashboards, circuits, and other car parts zigzag across the borders of Canada, Mexico, and the United States many times before ending up in a vehicle in Detroit or Monterrey, Mexico. Disentangling those complex international supply chains could imperil the industry, more than a dozen industry participants and experts told Foreign Policy.

Colegas:

Fascinating press conference among US and Mexican officials, dealing with delicate issues about the wall, undocumented immigrants, Central America, responsibilities, and security cooperation. The comments by Mexican officials are quite frank, overshadowing the careful diplomatic talk of Secretaries Tillerson and Kelly.

Former American Ambassador to Mexico comments that the United States should treat Mexico as a vital partner, not a punching bag. He reviews the strength and benefits of the deep bilateral ties.

Will China fill the void as the US sends signals of potential withdrawal from Latin America? This article examines Chinese investments and argues that Latin American countries now have another option: “Unfortunately, unless there is a course correction in U.S. policy, it looks like—for a little while at least—it will be up to Latin American governments themselves to carve out a more constructive relationship with a Chinese government that appears more-than-willing to fill the vacuum potentially left by the United States.”

Mexico has indicated it will not accept the Trump administration’s new immigration proposals, saying it will go to the United Nations to defend the rights of immigrants in the US. Luis Videgaray, Mexico’s foreign minister, was responding to Donald Trump’s plans to enforce immigration rules more vigorously against undocumented migrants, which could lead to mass deportations to Mexico, not just of Mexicans but also citizens of other Latin American countries.

Research indicates that Spanish is the happiest:

“Paris may be considered the romance capital of the world, but it turns out that Spain is the most amorous nation. And this may be linked to the fact the language was recently found to be the happiest and most positive by mathematicians.”

Former Mexican Ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, reviews the state of relations between the United States and Mexico. Argues that the relationship is dangerously close to the edge. “Dangerously and sadly — particularly for someone such as myself who has spent a lifetime seeking to deepen and widen U.S.-Mexico ties — the relationship is today on a knife’s edge. Throughout the 2016 presidential campaign, “alternative facts” regarding trade with Mexico or the dynamics along our common border along with a toxic anti-Mexican narrative — potentially changing the accepted rules of engagement in U.S. political discourse and public policy toward its southern partner — have seriously damaged perceptions on both sides of the Rio Grande, inflaming passions and propelling jingoism and unhelpful rhetoric.”

At the change of administrations the community of scholars, businessmen, and foreign policy experts ask the question: What will be the impact of the new administration on Latin American policy? Attached are 3 articles that shed some light. It may be too early to tell, but there are already some fissures developing in our relationship with the countries, mostly because of potential protectionism and the approach towards Mexico. A number of Latin American countries have come out in support of Mexico in the scrap with Washington.
Latin America has always been a reservoir of good feelings and support for the United States internationally. Even Mexico, which for many years feared a close relationship with the United States, has been a good partner since the 1980s. American isolationism and protectionism will encourage Latin American countries to diversify their relations. You can hear the tinkling of champagne glasses in Beijing as the US pulled out of the Pacific Trade pact. China will now be the center of gravity for Pacific free trade. It will write the rules and reap the benefits rather than us. We would then contribute to the rise of Chinese power in the Pacific. Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Chile will be benificiaries of foreign investment because they have extensive trade agreements around the globe, which is attractive to foreign manufacturers who can thereby export to more countries. Below are 3 articles which provide insights:

Latin American countries are reacting to Trump initiatives by supporting Mexico. This is to be expected. It is evidence that the historical and cultural ties among the countries are still strong and matter in international relations.

Michael Shifter, President of the Inter-American Dialogue, analyzes the crisis in US-Mexican relations. The stakes are very high for both countries, the potential for both countries losing is high. Sample from article:
“And, ironically, undocumented immigration would spike. Mexicans workers would feel forced to flee the consequences of NAFTA's collapse and the Mexican government could loosen its controls on immigration from Central America. (At present, seven in 10 Central American migrants headed for the U.S. are apprehended at Mexico's southern border with Guatemala.) Trump is the only one who can end this standoff. Only he can prevent lost jobs, new security vulnerabilities and a wave of illegal immigration — all of which are exactly what he aimed to prevent in the first place.”

One of the few encouraging political developments of 2016 was the Colombian government’s peace agreement with the country’s FARC guerrillas, ending a half-century of violent insurgency. How was the deal with the FARC achieved, and what lessons does Colombia’s peace process hold for political leaders elsewhere? President Juan Manuel Santos comments.

Jorge Castañeda, former Foreign Minister of Mexico and distinguished scholar, comments on Trump’s plans to build the wall, deport undocumented immigrants, and “rip up” the North American Free Trade Agreement. Recommends a tough response by Mexico to every one of these.

Trump’s election calls attention to Latin America’s extensive experience with populism. Article argues: “For Latin American scholars the trends are particularly worrisome. We have seen this movie before, and it rarely ends well. In that regard, Latin America is a powerful and often sad demonstration of the anti-institutional pitfalls of populism.” Author points out the different institutional checks to populism in the US and those in Latin American countries.

Geopolitics waits for no man, not even the United States’ president-elect. Little more than a week after Donald Trump’s victory, Xi Jinping, president of the world’s second largest economy, set off for Latin America—his third trip there since 2013—clutching a sheaf of trade deals. They were proposed long before the change of government in Washington. But at a time when the image of the big, bad yanqui seems to be making a comeback, Mr Xi may find himself with an opportunity to boost Chinese influence in the American backyard.

What does Trump augur for Latin America? While the Trump team has said very little about Latin America, Trump’s comments on Mexico have had serious reverberations for that country’s economy, such as lowering the value of the peso. Other than possibly Cuba, the rest of the Americas will be unaffected. Missing from the article is the impact on the US economy of protectionism. For example, if the Mexican peso is cheaper, US exports to Mexico will be more expensive. This will reduce jobs in the US.

The Colombian conflict, the longest war in the Americas, may be finally over. Article discusses the elements of the peace agreement and cautions about future prospects. This is a remarkable achievement by the Colombian people. Let’s applaud them, and let’s also recognize how essential US advice and support has been in strengthening the capacity of the government of Colombia. There is much work ahead, the task of rebuilding and achieving a permanent peace remains.

Two scholars review Brazil’s Olympics, the nation’s internal difficulties, and its long term engagement in the world. They state: “Even in this difficult time, Brazil needs to engage with, rather than retreat from, the world in order to succeed.”

Colombia’s second largest city has undergone a renaissance of remarkable proportions. It’s the result of investment in security, infrastructure, and services. The city is a model of success.

Ricardo Hausmann, a distinguished Venezuelan scholar at Harvard, discusses why people and countries, such as Venezuela, adopt self-destructive policies.

The Republican platform on Latin America can be read here. While party platforms seldom have decisive effect on foreign policy, this one suggests returning US-Latin American relations to a Cold War framework. The document also has an educational value, which is perhaps more important.

This article does not make for easy reading. Anyone who has landed at this Rio de Janeiro airport has the same visual reaction: how awesome the environmental problem is. In view of the upcoming Olympics it is an especially dangerous situation.

Article examines the progress that Latin America has made in reducing poverty and creating more optimism and hope about improvements in the future. Author compares and contrasts the situation in the United States, and recommends taking lessons from Lain America to restore the American dream. Counter-conventional thinking.

Two prominent Venezuelan writers portray the disaster that makes Venezuela the sick man of Latin America. Moisés Naím and Francisco Toro: “Riots and looting have become commonplace, as hungry people vent their despair while the revolutionary elite lives in luxury, pausing now and then to order recruits to fire more tear gas into crowds desperate for food.”

The response of the OAS to the crisis in Venezuela is an important test of the effectiveness of that organization. Secretary General Luis Almagro
has invoked the Democratic Charter to promote respect for democracy in that country.

“Brazil’s oil company Petrobras will finally get its day in a U.S. court on Sept. 19 in a trial that pits 18 former executives and 13 investment banks, including J.P. Morgan Securities, against U.S. and U.K. investors. Claimants are seeking “tens of billions of dollars” in losses. The company is the centerpiece in what has become Brazil’s crime of the century. The scandal involving contract rigging, bribery and money laundering recently brought down a sitting president and promises to devour a chunk of Brazil’s career politicians in criminal probe.”

Brazil’s lower house has voted to impeach President Dilma Rousseff for corruption. Some Brazilians see this as the only way to promote change in the nations’ politics.

Offshore banking has been a way to hide money. Attached is a report that looks at how international politicians and criminals hide money in places such as Panama, British Virgin islands, and other locations. An excerpt:
“The documents make it clear that major banks are big drivers behind the creation of hard-to-trace companies in the British Virgin Islands, Panama and other offshore havens. The files list nearly 15,600 paper companies that banks set up for clients who want keep their finances under wraps, including thousands created by international giants UBS and HSBC. The records reveal a pattern of covert maneuvers by banks, companies and people tied to Russian leader Putin. The records show offshore companies linked to this network moving money in transactions as large as $200 million at a time. Putin associates disguised payments, backdated documents and gained hidden influence within the country’s media and automotive industries, the leaked files show.”

Article examines Colombia’s remarkable emergence from the drugs, violence, and criminality of the 1990s into a more secure and economically dynamic country. There is also prospect of ending 50 years of guerrilla war.

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Americas/2016/0320/Colombia-s-big-comeback

The Chinese have a deal to dig the Nicaraguan Canal. But after much fanfare there is no visible progress, and little is anticipated in view of the costs and environmental concerns.

Offshore banking has been a way to hide money. Attached is a report that looks at how international politicians and criminals hide money in places such as Panama, British Virgin islands, and other locations. An excerpt:
“The documents make it clear that major banks are big drivers behind the creation of hard-to-trace companies in the British Virgin Islands, Panama and other offshore havens. The files list nearly 15,600 paper companies that banks set up for clients who want keep their finances under wraps, including thousands created by international giants UBS and HSBC. The records reveal a pattern of covert maneuvers by banks, companies and people tied to Russian leader Putin. The records show offshore companies linked to this network moving money in transactions as large as $200 million at a time. Putin associates disguised payments, backdated documents and gained hidden influence within the country’s media and automotive industries, the leaked files show.”

The pink tide of leftist governments is receding. An example is President Obama’s visit to Argentina, where he will build bridges of cooperation with the new centrist government of Mauricio Macri. The pattern is visible elsewhere in Latin America.

Article analyzes the prospects for the 2016 election and how the Hispanic vote will go. According to the analysis the Republicans will lose the Hispanic vote by a margin of nearly 3 to 1.

President Obama will visit Argentina after he travels to Cuba. The visit will help reestablish cooperative relations with one of the most important countries in Latin America. President Mauricio Macri wants a better relationship with Washington as well as relaunching Argentina on the global stage.

President Obama will shortly travel to Cuba and Argentina. Article reviews the state of US-Argentine relations and the prospects for improved relations, given the new direction in foreign policy by the Macri government. Bottom line: “The United States, for its part, should seize this opportunity to work closely with Macri in the handling of hemispheric issues. U.S. policymakers would also do well to keep in mind that the time is now, and that the window of opportunity for making the most out of its relationship with Argentina is not likely to be open forever.”

The delay in Senate approval of the Ambassador nominee for Mexico, Roberta Jacobson, is a case study in how Washington power politics works. A senator from each party, Democrat and Republican, has put a hold on Jacobson being considered for approval by the Senate. Jacobson is the Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs.

While nationalist-populist politicians thrive in the U.S. and Europe, they are losing support in Latin America. Like Latin America’s populist leaders, Donald Trump blames foreigners and free trade for his country’s problems. Trump’s campaign sounds very much like that of Latin American demagogues: it’s all about him, and staying at center stage.

Evo Morales lost the national referendum to allow him to serve a fourth presidential term. This is important for Bolivia as well as the rest of Latin America, which has been riding a wave of leftist populism. It follows the defeat of Cristina Kirchner in Argentina and the loss of the parliament setback by the chavista government in Venezuela. It also shows the resilience of democracy, even in a country that is multiethnic.

Argentina's President, Mauricio Macri, said on Friday he had told U.S. Vice President Joe Biden that his recently installed government was ready to build a "pragmatic, intelligent" relationship with Washington.

Argentina's President, Mauricio Macri, said on Friday he had told U.S. Vice President Joe Biden that his recently installed government was ready to build a "pragmatic, intelligent" relationship with Washington.

Bolivian lake disappears. Various causes contributed, including climate change, according to experts.

Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro of Uruguay, is making the organization relevant again by denouncing violations of human rights and democratic practice.

Not long ago Brazil was hailed as an economic powerhouse, surpassing the United Kingdom in ranking of gross national product. For a variety of reasons the economy has contracted. The Economist magazine analyzes the reasons and speculates about the future.

The prestigious International Crisis Group analyzes options for Venezuelans in the aftermath of electoral victory by the opposition. Much depends on the opposition staying together and the Maduro government accepting the new reality.

The report surveys patterns in US trade with Latin America. The charts and the narrative point to important aspects of trade and investment. For example, Canada and Mexico comprise the largest merchandise trade partners in the Americas. The rest of Latin America accounts for a small 9.2% of US global trade.

Attached is an excellent article on Brazil's creative anti-poverty program.
It has raised up millions from poverty. The program has been adapted by a number of countries and enhanced Brazil's soft power around the globe.

According to Washington Post veteran Latin American reporter Charles Lane, little has changed in Cuba in terms of freedom since the agreement to reestablish full relations with the United States.

US and Cuban diplomats are discussing the $1.9 billion in claims that Americans have against Cuba for properties seized by the Cuban government after Castro seized power.

The opposition to the Maduro government claims that it’s close to achieving and absolute legislative majority, 112 seats. This is the first time that the government has not controlled the legislature, having already dominated the executive and how Maduro and company will respond to the loss of power.

The distinguished Venezuelan intellectual, Moisé Naím, argues that the period of prosperity in Latin America, 2004 to 2013, is yielding to slow growth. This will hurt the middle class an may bring what he calls “corrosive social conflict, government paralysis, and political instability.”

Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff faces impeachment, an unprecedented event in that country and perhaps Latin America. A summary: “Eduardo Cunha, speaker of Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies, approved the launching of the impeachment proceedings. The process will examine Rousseff’s possible connection to a huge corruption scandal at the state-controlled oil company Petrobras and the decision by Petrobras to buy an overpriced oil refinery in Pasadena, Tex., in 2006 when Rousseff was the company’s board chairwoman, officials said. More seriously, the proceedings will focus on allegations that she broke the law through irregularities in the government’s accounting and spending.”

For more than 17 years, Sister Neyda Rojas, a Catholic nun, has been serving God in a place described as hell on earth—a Venezuelan prison. If you value human rights this is a powerful story.

Rather than relying on wealthy individual donors, many countries across the Western Hemisphere fund their elections with public money — over half of all Latin American democracies, in fact. Rather than relying on wealthy individual donors, many countries across the Western Hemisphere fund their elections with public money — over half of all Latin American democracies, in fact. And while most allow some corporate financing of campaigns, they impose more stringent limits than in the United States. Colombia forbids corporate money in presidential races. Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Paraguay have banned all corporate donations to political campaigns, due in part to worries about their power to skew the political process.

Various factors indicate that the Hispanic vote in the United States will double by 2030: aging, naturalization, and immigration.

The election of Mauricio Macri as President of Argentina promises to have hemispheric and global implications, according to Andrés Oppenheimer of the Miami Herald. See this interview:

http://www.csmonitor.com/World/Americas/2015/1123/Argentina-s-president-elect-Macri-promises-an-end-to-divisive-politics-video

The triumph of Mauricio Macri as next president of Argentina is a signal event in Latin American and Argentine politics. Will this be the end of the left? Article argues that more pragmatic and less ideological candidates are emerging. Moreover, the decline in commodity prices is reducing the amount of money that populists can give out to their political bases.

Argentina’s presidential election on Sunday, November 22 may bring significant change to that country. The results will have important implications for the rest of the continent.

The Latin American left is considerably weaker these days. The most striking examples: Argentina and Venezuela. This article asserts that governments of the left are becoming less popular, but the old right is not making a comeback.

The runoff election for president in Argentina (November 22) is likely to move the country to the right. In any case it’s good bye to Kirchnerism. So says Foreign Affairs magazine.

According to this report, the reasons for so much crime in Latin America are: 1. The disorganized growth of cities; 2. police and justice systems did not adjust; 3. 32 million youth do not study or work. Add drug trafficking and organized crime.

One of the worst human rights violators, Venezuela, was just reelected to the UN Human Rights Council. This is outrageous. The government is one of the violators of human rights in the world.

Crime, Poverty has been significantly reduced in Latin America since 2000. But violence persists, due to persistent inequality, youth unemployment, “aspirational crime,” drug trafficking, and continued weak security and justice Institutions.

Orlando Perez analyzes prospects for democratic change in Guatemala, a country deeply affected by violence and corruption. Former comedian Jimmy Morales faces great challenges as the new president. Morales has no experience in politics.

No, not that kind. In Argentina’s election on Sunday the heavy favorite, Daniel Scioli, who was backed by the government Peronist apparatus was forced into a runoff election by the center-right opponent, Mauricio Macri. In addition, the governing party lost its congressional majority and the governorship of Buenos Aires Province. The runoff will be November.

The Inter-American Development estimates that crime costs 3% of GDP. Countries included in study: Chile, Costa, Rica, Honduras, Paraguay, Uruguay.

The economic downturn in Latin America can be blamed mostly on China slowing down. Declining commodity prices have reduced exports and investment. If Brazil and Venezuela are subtracted from the equation, the rest of the countries are doing better.

Despite good economic performance and the reduction of poverty in recent years, dangerous times lie ahead in Latin America because of slow growth.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

Despite the warming of relations between the US and Cuba people are still rounded up because of public criticism of the Cuban government. Does this case help the process of normalization? Graffiti artist Maldonado paints names on 2 pigs. Fidel and Raul don’t have a sense of humor.

The highly touted Chinese economic penetration of Latin America via grandiose construction schemes faces some stark realities. These include political opposition, environmental considerations, as well as growing wariness about China.

The populist government of Rafael Correa faces increasing opposition because of its increasing dictatorial ways. Former journalist who was fired describes the situation.

Panama Canal expansion includes bigger locks for more ship capacity. The new technology eliminates the old electric mules, causing safety concerns. Where will they get enough water for the larger locks?

Former president of Brazil, Fernando Henrique Cardoso, comments on President carter’s affection for Latin America.

Restoring full diplomatic relations with Cuba will require addressing a number of questions. Among them are Guantanamo, compensation for property, ending the embargo, appointing an ambassador, cooperation on counternarcotics, and protecting the environment.

Article argues that “a moderate-sounding approach to immigration could take the rough edges off the party’s image, reduce Latino opposition to it and diminish the issue as a Democratic Party advantage.”

Article discusses the influence of Argentine history, particularly Peronism’s third way with respect to social justice. His “moral and political convictions” were formed during a troubled time.

The new Secretary General of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro Lemes, faces many challenges. These include modernizing the organization, overcoming hemispheric tensions, and promoting democratic change.

Mayor Aníbal Gaviria explains how Medellín, Colombia, undertook urban renewal in the midst of violence and poverty. Violence is down to the lowest in 35 year, so is social inequality, and the city is far more livable.

Richard Gioioso writes on changing American policy on Cuban migration:
‘’American foreign and migration policy should reflect Cuba in 2015, not in 1960. Changing migration policy to Cubans recognizes those who are truly politically persecuted or fear persecution to become refugees or seek asylum. It will expand the currently small class of Cuban travelers to the U.S. who, as members of and stakeholders in the Cuban polity, will return the island with greater motivation, know-how, and support for more political and economic change. A new official U.S. migration policy for Cubans will be a fresh approach to stimulating the political and economic reforms through openness and exchange that five and a half decades of isolation have failed to achieve.”

A combination of factors, including higher taxes and his authoritarian methods of governing, and fears of “venezuelization,” have led to massive protests against Ecuador’s President, Rafael Correa. Biggest protests have been in Guayaquil, home of fierce opponent and former mayor Jaime Nebot.

Barack Obama and Dilma Rousseff put climate change at the top of their agenda at their bilateral meeting on Tuesday, with the US and Brazil agreeing to obtain up to 20% of their electricity from renewable power by 2030. Brazil committed to restoring up to 12m hectares of forest – an area about the size of England or Pennsylvania – in another attempt to reduce the carbon pollution that causes climate change.

Costa Rica is home to one of Latin America’s leading science sectors. In 2014, the country’s life sciences sector—comprising medical devices, biotech, and pharmaceuticals—drew 27 percent of total foreign direct investment along with nine new investment projects. Exports tripled to $1. 6 billion between 2003 and 2013.

Authors David Petraeus and Paras Bhanayani contend that the United States, Canada, and Mexico are positioned to be “the global economic drivers of the 21st century.

Eric Farnsworth, writing in the prestigious journal National Interest, argues that Brazil’s growing strength merits serious attention from the United States. The visit to Washington by President Dilma Rousseff provides an opportunity to “reevaluate and strengthen its approach.”

The ranking of the top 10 universities in Latin America. Brazil has 5, Chile 2, Mexico 2, Colombia 1. Among the top 50, Argentina has 8, Mexico 7, Colombia 5.

Pope Francis has taken steps to rehabilitate Liberation Theology in the Catholic Church. This story deals with the founder of the theology, Fr. Gustavo Gutierrez of Peru.

The US Interests Section in Havana provides instruction in journalism for Cubans, and the Cuban government doesn’t like it.

General John F. Kelly, Commander of the United States Southern Command discusses defense relations with Latin America.

“The beatification of Archbishop Óscar Arnulfo Romero Galdámez, who was Pastor of that dear Archdiocese is a cause for great joy for the Salvadoran people and for those who rejoice by the example of the best children of the Church. Archbishop Romero, who built peace with the strength of love, gave witness to the faith with his life, given to the extreme.”

Article reviews the reaction of the Jewish community in Argentina to the murder of prosecutor Alberto Nisman. Excerpt: “Nisman’s death has also had a profound effect on Argentina’s Jewish community—the largest in Latin America—that once again faces age-old accusations of double loyalties, raising questions about their full inclusion in Argentine society. But worse, Nisman’s death and the official reaction have also presented serious risks for broader civil society in Argentina that go beyond the country’s Jewish community.”

The negotiations between the government of Colombian and the FARC have progressed significantly. Author’s assessment: “Though negotiators are walking a dangerous tightrope, the peace process has proven robust so far. So despite several mishaps (including another battle at the end of April), the progress to date and the underlying structure of the conflict are still forcing the parties toward a deal.”

The prospective visit to Cuba in late September by Pope Francis has the potential to open up space for Catholicism. This is especially so because the Pope helped make the deal for rapprochement between the United States and Cuba. But it won’t be easy.

Puerto Rico's struggling economy has led to an exodus of young people moving to the US mainland - while wealthy Americans are starting to call San Juan home. As a result, the economy and identity of both places are changing in surprising ways. BBC reports.

The amount of money lost to corrupt schemes in Venezuela is astounding. New York Times reports that making money on government purchases is easy to do, with impunity.

The Pew Research Center provides some fascinating data on audiences for the Spanish language media in the United States. There are 54 million Hispanics, 60% of whom are bilingual. Note robust growth for Philadelphia’s Al Dia newspaper.

Article details the virtual collapse of health care in Venezuela. The shortage of medicines and supplies for operations, corrupt bureaucracy, and the exodus of doctors (including Cuban medics) is creating serious problems. In addition, food subsidies and price controls for foods heavy in carbohydrates, sugars, and fats adds to the high rate of obesity.

The ambassador of Panama to the United States, Emanuel González-Revilla, talked about what his country has to offer in terms of business opportunities during the annual luncheon of the Pan-American Association.

Former Ambassador to Venezuela, Patrick Duddy, comments on the crisis in Venezuela, the recent imposition of sanctions on Venezuelan officials, and the role of the Union of South American Nations. Summary:
“The language in the U.S. executive order characterizing Venezuela a threat to the national security of the United States may seem hyperbolic to some but the crisis in Venezuela is real. UNASUR efforts to encourage dialogue last year failed. At the same meeting at which they scolded the U.S. for interventionism, they announced their intention to try again to foster a dialogue between the Maduro government and its domestic opponents. North Americans should wish them success. Criticizing the U.S. for taking the very limited steps contemplated by President Obama’s executive order will not improve the reality on the ground in Venezuela. Maybe a new mediation effort will fare better. It is in no one’s interest to see Venezuela collapse—either politically or economically. But stability achieved at the price of the political liberties that the region worked so hard to recover in the relatively recent past is not going resolve the problems of the present moment.”
This report appeared originally in American Diplomacy. Readers can link to homepage: http://www.unc.edu/depts/diplomat/. Ambassador Duddy is currently director of Duke University’s Center for Latin American and Caribbean Studies.

A range of Latin American experts, from former diplomats, to the former president of Costa Rica, to academics and business people, comment on the achievements of the Summit of the Americas held in Panama last week.

The Seventh Summit of the Americas held in Panama on April 10-11 will be remembered for the good vibrations between President Barack Obama and Raúl Castro on the promise of normalization of relations with Cuba. Overlooked, however, was a remarkable exchange between Obama and Ecuadorean President Rafael Correa. The incident went largely unreported by the American media, which suffers attention deficit disorder on Latin America. It’s worth reviewing it in order to understand contrasting views on the nature of democracy—the checks and balances of American democracy versus the guided democracy of Latin America where the executive is powerful, at times authoritarian.

Dr. Orlando Perez, Associate Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences at Millersville University, comments on the recently concluded Seventh Summit of the Americas. He draws a contrast between the forward looking statements of President Obama and those Latin American presidents who looked at the past to criticize the United States.

New York Times editorializes about ways that the United States can engage with Latin America. These include mending relations with Brazil, Venezuela, and Cuba. In addition, attention should be given to energy security for Caribbean nations and immigration.

Assistant Secretary of State for Inter-American Affairs, Roberta Jacobson, outlines the key issues for the United States at the Summit of the Americas. They are cooperation on democracy and human rights, global competitiveness, social development, energy and climate change, as well as engagement with Cuba and Brazil.

The Summit of the Americas I n Panama will be remembered not only for the presidential level discussions. A band of Cubans from both the government and civil society attended. “It’s kind of a beautiful thing. You have Cubans going together and interacting,” said Christopher Sabatini, adjunct professor at the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University. That this widely diverse Cuban contingent came together at the Summit “demonstrates for the Cuban government a real element of change. It allowed opponents to go to a summit and speak and participate as equals,” added Sabatini.

Moisés Naím, former editor of Foreign Policy magazine, prolific writer, and former minister in the Venezuelan government writes in Madrid’s prestigious El País that the Summit of the Americas in Panama is a time for celebration, and there will also be a confrontation between the mentiras of the Venezuelan government and its supporters in the Hemisphere and those who want to promote a genuine agenda based on the Summit’s theme: “Prosperity with Equity: The Challenge of Cooperation in the Americas.”

President Obama stopped in Jamaica on his way to the Seventh Summit of the Americas. There he met more than a dozen Caribbean leaders to discuss meeting the energy needs of Caribbean countries, especially in the throes of losing petroleum subsidies from Venezuela.

President Obama stopped in Jamaica on his way to the Seventh Summit of the Americas. There he met more than a dozen Caribbean leaders to discuss meeting the energy needs of Caribbean countries, especially in the throes of losing petroleum subsidies from Venezuela.

Long time Latin America watcher Cynthia Arnson of the Wilson Center in Washington points to the historic nature of the Seventh Summit of the Americas. She states that this an opportunity for the United States and the Latin American countries. But dealing with substantive issues might be sidetracked by secondary matters.

Former Venezuelan Ambassador to the Organization of American States Virginia Contreras writes a penetrating analysis of where Venezuela is headed in the next months. Because of the ineptitude of the political opposition and because the Maduro government will control the country and the electoral process little will change. Ambassador Contreras wrote this report exclusively for the Pan Am American Association of Philadelphia.

Ambassador Patrick Duddy, former American envoy to Venezuela, comments on the political crisis in that country. He also analyzes the policy implications and provides recommendations for the United States and other concerned nations. The Council of Foreign Relations is the sponsor of the report.

Brazil faces a world class corruption scandal associated with its national oil company. 53 politicians from 6 different political parties, including 2 from the party of President Dilma Rouseff, have been implicated in receiving bribes. The news comes at a time when the country faces a host of problems, including a record drought, slow economic growth, and declining popularity for Dilma.

Rising poverty, food scarcity, inflation, and the low price of oil make for tough times for the followers of Hugo Chavez. Moreover, the low popularity of President Maduro has plummeted to an all time low of 23%. Many chavistas are questioning their future.

New York Times editorial criticizes Brazil for its failure to assume international responsibilities. It could, for example, play a constructive role with respect to Cuba and Venezuela.

A 53 year-old Bolivian mother of two becomes the first general in Latin America to command troops. Her father, also military, led the unit that captured and killed Che Guevara.

Political cartoonists is no laughing matter in some Latin American countries. They risk being hounded by irate government who cannot take the humor.

Attached is the annual posture statement to the Senate by General John Kelly, United States Southern Command. The document is a very good source of information on the security environment and strategy for the Americas.

Chris Sabatini criticizes Latin American leaders for not speaking out against the Venezuelan government:

“Latin America has reverted to an earlier time. The diplomatic imperative seems to be for each country to mind its own business, never mind what a neighboring regime may be doing to its own population. In retrospect, it’s become easier to appreciate how exceptional the turn of the century moment was for Latin America, in terms of the cohesion and optimism around a shared democratic vision.”

After years of violence and destruction Colombia has been transformed into an economic powerhouse. This article examines the both the positive and negative aspects of the country’s growth.

Article examines whether Panama can become the transportation hub, logistics, and international financial center that Singapore is. Panama’s advantages and shortcoming are pointed out.

Experts and shipping companies are quite skeptical about the need for the inter-oceanic canal that may be built in Nicaragua. Some of the skepticism:

“The canal would need to generate an annual income of about $5 billion…But the Panama Canal, with a transit of 13,482 ships, carrying 327 million tons, generates annual revenue of only about $2 billion, according to 2014 figures. Naturally, the lack of an apparent financial feasibility has raised questions about whether the Nicaragua Grand Canal is a commercial project for HKND—or a geopolitical project for the Chinese government…But if the Nicaragua canal has to adhere to what any other business has to, from an investment standpoint, I think the canal wouldn't be much of an impact for the Panama Canal," he said. "Based on investment requirements, the prices of the Nicaragua canal would be very high, and the Panama Canal would be able to maintain its profits and lower prices."

This is essential reading for scholars and policy makers dealing with Latin America. Author argues that scholars, especially political scientists, have little impact on foreign policy for Latin America. Reasons include ideological and methodological rigidity, and lack of on the ground research in Latin America.

One of this nation’s most distinguished senior scholars of Latin American affairs, Abraham Lowenthal, comments on Cuba and the US. He recommends caution, patience, and flexibility for the United States.

Latin America’s proportion of people over 65 is growing. Added to declining fertility rates and increasing life spans the pattern will place pressures on the economies. See the 7 most populous countries. Chile, Brazil, and Argentina (in that order) will have the largest percentage of 65+.

A remarkably preserved mining town that boomed in the nineteenth century is to be found in the Chilean desert. Humberstone remains practically intact because of the dry desert conditions. A foundation aims to keep it that way.

Exelon's $450,000 gift to the Beasley School of Law honors longtime board member Judge Nelson A. Diaz, LAW ’72.

President Rafael Correa of Ecuador is very popular and controversial. He has brought social and economic progress to the people, yet some argue that he is autocratic. This article describes his sensitivity to criticism, specifically those in the electronic media.

A special prosecutor was going to present a report that accuses senior officials in the Argentine government (including president and vice president) of covering up the facts about Iranian involvement in the terrorist attack against a Jewish cultural center in Buenos Aires. The prosecutor was found dead under suspicious circumstances.

This article explores the pros and cons of falling oil prices on the countries of the Hemisphere. There is good news and bad news, for the environment, investors, oil producers and importers, and for alternative energy.

Chris Sabatini writes about the regulatory impediments that lie ahead in the normalization of relations with Cuba. The devil may be in the details, he argues.

A former senior American diplomat, Vickie Huddleston, analyzes how the United States and Cuba should move forward on normalizing relations. She specifies the issues that should be included in negotiations between Washington and Havana.

Foreign policy initiatives are seldom risk free. Opening up to Cuba is not the end, but the beginning of a long process of democratizing one the last communist dictatorships in the world.

This is an important article by a distinguished scholar, Moisés Naím. It’s about the success of the Pacific Alliance free trade market, which has made great progress since its inception 20 months ago. Despite this, a number of Latin American countries are reticent about joining.

People in the city of Nuevo Pachacutec pay high price for the substance of life: water. The problem is complicated by the retreat of Andean glaciers which provide water to coastal settlements.

One of the great cuisines of the world is Peruvian. It mingles indigenous with European (especially Spanish) and African ingredients. The cuisine is becoming increasingly popular around the globe., especially in the United States.

The number of Latin American students at US universities is increasing, with strong commitments by Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina, and Mexico. Correspondingly, 16% of US youths choose to study in Latin America, compared to 53% in Europe.

Uruguay, where cattle outnumber people by 4 to 1, leads the world in computerized traceability of beef to insure quality. Cattle are electronically tagged at birth.

This article contains data on the impressive impact of immigration on the American economy, such as entrepreneurship, job creation, taxes collected, and home values.

Remarks by Diego Castellanos on the William J. Clothier II Award by the Pan American Association of Philadelphia in the Union League Hall on October 24, 2014

Climate change deeply affects Peru, namely in the loss of water supplies. Rising temperatures are melting glaciers, which are a principal source of water.

Washington Post reports that Republicans made inroads with the Latino vote in the recent election, though fewer Latinos voted. Similar report appears in the New York Times.

Panama has had a remarkable economic surge due to its position as a global hub and international trade, with ambitions to become the Singapore of Latin America. Will its politics allow it to happen? It remains to be seen.

Commentary on the hard fought Brazilian presidential election points out the challenges that Dilma Rousseff faces in second term. She won by a margin of 3.8 %, setting up what could be a difficult tenure, given the passions of the race and the problems facing the country.

Colombia is investing more in scientific research. Whereas Brazil trains 13,000 new scientists a year, Colombia aims for 1,000. Currently there are 5,200 scientists doing research in the country, but more are needed to stay competitive and promote economic development.

Brazil will go to the polls again to elect a president, failing to do so on October 5 because no candidate got more than 50%. Incumbent Dilma Rousseff leads in votes cast but faces a strong challenge from Aecio Neves.

A tough commentary on Brazil and its global aspirations. Bottom line: it won’t take responsibility on key international issues. Therefore, says Andes Oppenheimer, why should it have a United Nations Security Council permanent seat?

The percentage of billionaires in Latin America grew faster than all other parts of the world, by 38% vs. 18% in Asia, 10% in US, and 1% in Europe. There are 153 billionaires in Latin America, up from 111 last year. What accounts for the distinction? Also, it’s old wealth.

Mexico has quietly become a world class producer of cars, with Aguascalientes becoming a mini Detroit. Nearly all global carmakers are investing billions of dollars in plants and infrastructure. It’s also the 4th largest exporter. Reasons for the growth: plentiful engineers and skilled workers.

Former President of Bolivia
Carlos Mesa
Discusses the Challenges and Opportunities
for Regional Development

Critics across the political spectrum assail Obama for his decision to postpone action on immigration until after the November elections. This is something he promised to do this summer, but the postponement highlights the partisan political calculation which has upset the Hispanic community and others who were hoping for positive action.

One of the great problems in Latin America is the absence of government control of vast remote territories. Illegal logging is one of the consequences. This article reports that 80% of Peru’s log exports are from illegal cuttings. And the police turn a blind eye for a price.

Statistical report on the size and percentage of the Hispanic population in the US (51.9 million in 2011)by country of origin. Towering above the rest is Mexico with 64.6%, followed by Puerto Rico, El Salvador, and Cuba. Accordingly, the United States is the second largest Hispanic nation in the world.

Poor in fossil fuel, Chile is making strides in producing energy from renewable sources, especially wind. The country also has enormous potential for wave and geo-thermal power.

UN reports that poverty is down from 41.7% in 2000 to 25.3% in 2012. Still some 200 million are poor, defined as living with less than $4 per day. Concurrently, the middle class grew from 22% of population to 34%.

These two articles demonstrate two sides of the immigration issue. The first deals with former immigrant latinos moving up the ladder of success, while the second proposes one way to fix illegal immigration.

Enrique Krause, distinguished Mexican author, analyzes the new wave of anti-Semitism and provides historical context.

The GOP is becoming more aware of the need to attract the Hispanic vote. This article describes how certain politicos are reaching out by traveling to Latin America.

This is the subheading

Ambitious Road Construction Program

It’s not Mexican Independence Day

Is Brazil Prepared for World Cup? Maybe Not.

Review of Book on Rice and Puerto Rican Culture

The United States’ relationship with Latin America suffers from a policy vacuum

Philadelphia Area Students Win Awards

Ambassador Medina Mora addressed the Pan American Association of Philadelphia on the occasion of Pan American Day, April 14, 2014.

Standard and Poor’s Downgrades Brazil’s Credit Rating

The Dynamic Colombian Economy

Ecuadorian President in Boston Globe

Controversial Pacification Measure

Simón Bolívar

Latin America Does Nothing on Venezuela

Face Culture of Harassment

Argentine President Faces Many Troubles

Venezuelan Upheaval May Strengthen Government

Head of US Southern Command Reports

Transformation of the Mexican Capital

Interesting Analysis of Venezuelan Crisis

Latin Americans Do Not Criticize

Ecological Disaster

Most Important Alliance You Never Heard of

New Economic Integration Group in Latin America

Former American Ambassador Comments

Distinguished Voice Speaks Up

Journey by Land from Sāo Paulo to Peru

Bolivian Indian Women Advance

Curitiba’s Program Is Impressive

In the Crosshairs of Drug Traffic and Violence

Petraeus and Zoellick Promote North America

Heads of US, Canada, and Mexico Meet

Hispanic Population by Country of Origin

Excellent Report on US Trade & Investment

Monsignor Langlois Elevated

Impact of 2014 World Cup

Interview with Santiago Canton, Leader in Human Rights

Mexico Allows Private Investment in Oil and Gas

Financial Decisions Raise Concerns

World Court Decision

High Altitude Hacienda

Two Perspectives about the NSA Snooping on Foreign Leaders

Divided by Free Trade

Perspectives by Peter Hakim, Inter-American Dialogue

Tongue in Cheek about whether Brazil Will Work in 2014

Colombia Uses Christmas Message to Lure FARC

Experts Predict Latin America in 2014

UN Criticizes Decision to Legalize Marihuana

Latin America Thinking about the Future

Opposition Gains Municipal Offices

Latin America Needs More Innovation

Reputation on the Line

Brazil’s Bolsa Familia

Two Ladies Vie for Presidency

Populist Governments Tough Economic Prospects

Disparities in Public Funding

Al Día Coverage of Colombia Conference

Colombia Conference Very Successful

227 Dominate the Species

Former American Ambassador Comments on NAFTA and US-Mexican Relations

Expulsion of Diplomats

Two Prominent Americans Laud Colombia

President of Brazil Cancels State Visit to Washington

Dispute Over Maritime Jurisdiction

PBS Documentary

Tale of 2 Malls

Latin America’s Population is Changing Dramatically

Hedge Fund Wins Ruling

Ecuador Decides To Drill for Oil in Sensitive Natural Preserve

Argentina’s Famous Folksingers

Latin American Universities Rank low

Governing Party Loses in Primary Polling

How the Potato Changed the World

Brazilian Movie about Life in the Favelas

Colombian Government and FARC Negotiate

Colombia Eradicates River Blindness

Colombia Develops Drones for Surveillance

Does Central America Need Them?

Highest Outflow Since 1994

Uruguay to Vote on Legislation

How Socially Inclusive Are the Countries?

Pope Francis and the Battle for Latin America’s Soul

Colombian Report Renders Accounting of Conflict

Two Female Presidential Candidates

Latin America’s Dramatic Change

Pope Will Find Diversity

Expert Explains Brazil’s Moment of Hope

Latinos Like the United States Despite anti-American Governments

Protests Follow Economic Success

University Students Protest in Venezuela

Ecuadorean Ambassador on Hot Seat

Will Massive Protests Change Brazil?

Snowden Seeks Refuge in Ecuador

What Explains the Protests?

Crime Brings out Military in Dominican Republic

Argentina Cedes Top Spot for Eating Beef

Nicaragua One Step Closer to Approving Chinese Built Canal

Inter-American Dialogue Experts Comment on VP Biden Visit to Brazil

Dueling Perspectives on Latin America

Brazil Tackles Malnutrition

Coffee Blight Devastates Central American Production

Is Ecuadorean Chocolate the Best?

African Naval Cadets Train in Brazil

Vice President Promotes Trade

Money Sent to Latin America Stabilized

Bad News for Latin America

First Anniversary of Free Trade Shows Success

New Economic Integration Group in Latin America

Ride the Arica-La Paz Train?

Populism Leaves Latin America Behind

Former President and General Guilty

Why Are Brazilians Happy Despite Slow Growth?

Cacerolazo Becomes Tool of Protest

Obama Visits Mexico and Costa Rica

Haiti Will Plant 1.2 Million Trees on May 1

World Cup and Olympics Costly Boondoggle?

Anti-Americanism in Latin America isn’t what you think.

Ana Montes damaged the United States

Argentine government faces protests against inflation and corruption

Venezuelan Opposition Works for Long Term

Venezuela faces stormy weather

Peru develops early warnings of melting glaciers

Cardinal McCarrick speaks about Argentine Pope Francis

Mexico and Brazil: competing economic models?

Scarlett O’Hara went to Brazil

Still the favored destination for immigrants

The other Filadelfia

São Paulo: the city of traffic jams

A different perspective on Bolívar

Downside of Venezuelan oil to Caribbean countries

The endless fascination with Bolívar.

Mexican immigration to the United isn’t what it used to be.

What Pope Francis Means for Latin America

Latin America in 2030 will be different but some of the same problems will persist.

Paulo Sotero of the Woodrow Wilson Center provides an interesting commentary on Brazilian views on Chavez

Mario Vargas Llosa discuses the long standing question of why Latin America has had so many caudillos.

A new generation of chefs is taking Latin food to the next level.

Speculation about Venezuela's political future without Chavez.

Chavez's departure threatens to shatter the illusion of stability that authoritarian rule invariably seeks to instill.

There is speculation, as there always is in recent decades, that a papabile is to be found in Latin America.

Discussion on the importance of US-Mexico economic cooperation

What does this say about Latin American leadership?

Ambassador Patrick Duddy comments on post-Chavez Venezuela.

Last year Brazil overtook UK as the world's sixth largest economy, but this may soon change back.

The Embassy of Argentina held the Argentine Week in Philadelphia from October 30 to November 3, 2012. An extensive program was put in place to celebrate and enhance the political, economic, social, cultural, and scientific relations between Argentina and Greater Philadelphia area.

The article asks the provocative question of why the Latin American left is so anti-imperialist (read anti-American).

Dr. Schidlow has been with the College of Medicine since 1994. He was the chairman of the Department of Pediatrics and the senior associate dean of the pediatric clinical campus. He also served as physician-in-chief and chief medical and academic officer at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. He holds appointments as professor of pediatrics, medicine, and pharmacology and physiology.

Mr. Dario Bellot, was one of three individuals nominated for the CFO of the Year Award 2012 in Philadelphia. This award is given yearly by the Philadelphia Business Journal in cooperation with the Business School of Drexel University. Mr. Bellot was selected in recognition of his achievements at Congreso de Latinos Unidos where he is Vice President of Finance and Administration and CFO.

Dr. Daniel Schidlow was named Dean of the College of Medicine at Drexel University. He had served as Interim Dean since November 2011. He also served as the physician-in-chief at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children.

Sara Manzano-Diaz, has been appointed by President Obama as the new Regional Administrator for the Mid-Atlantic Region of the U.S. General Services Administration. She will manage over 1000 employees and oversee the federal government’s real estate portfolio, procurement of goods and services, and information technology for the six states in the Region.

General Oscar Naranjo, former director of Colombia’s National Police, will be an advisor on fighting drug trafficking to Mexican presidential candidate Enrique Peña Nieto if he is elected.

Accompanied by an official entourage of 1,500 people, on April 14-15 President Barack Obama journeyed to one of the most beautiful and storied cities in Latin America-- Cartagena, Colombia. Cartagena has a prominent place in American history.