Latin America
Peru’s Shining Path insurgency reemerges as security threat
On August 9, Peruvian forces captured two top-ranking commanders of the Shining Path Maoist guerrilla, following a series of offensives between the army and the insurgents. The events suggest that the
Are tensions with Guyana Venezuela’s electoral wildcard?
Venezuela’s government is facing an upsurge of riots and social turbulence due the deepening economic crisis. With elections coming ahead, President Maduro’s campaign is taking a sharp nationalist turn by
Petrobras scandal threatens to topple Rousseff
Dilma Rousseff’s mandate as President of Brazil is under serious risk of a premature ending. Her legitimacy and legality could be soon challenged, first by an Impeachment called by the
Latin American Domestic Politics Could Hamper TPP
While various Latin American nations have expressed support for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), internal political turmoil and scandals in various nations threaten to undermine trans-regional efforts at trade liberalization. Much
Collapsing currency signals need for reform in Colombia
The Colombian economy is faltering after years of oil-driven economic bonanza. Now, more than ever, a government-led national discussion to restructure and strengthen strategic import-competing industries is necessary. In a
Nicaragua canal poses significant environmental risks
While the canal would likely boost commercial activity and revenue in the region, the project carries strong economic and environmental risks. Attempts in the past have made the Nicaragua canal
Brazil’s infrastructure 2.0: Can Rousseff rouse the private sector?
Dilma Rousseff recently visited the US to attract private sector financing for her new infrastructure investment proposal. She made similar plans in 2012. Will investors bite this time? And will this
Look south: Startup opportunities in Latin America
Latin America’s startup scene is quickly emerging as a strong competitor to Silicon Valley and its European counterparts. Investors and businesses take note: look south in the Americas for the
Cuba Inc. – Long way to go before opening to the free market
With just one meeting in December, the Obama administration managed to create a rapid domino and excitement effect among American and foreign investors. However, Cuba endures extensive social and economic
The economic impact of gang violence in El Salvador
High murder rates, gang violence, and regional cartel control all inhibit Salvadorians seeking to start businesses. The violence has also scared off foreign investment in the country. Thirty years ago, during
