Posts From Daniel Lemaitre

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North America Politics

Forecasting unconventional elections: What can be done?

Despite unforgivable slips in the 2016 US presidential race, the polling industry must be strengthened, not discredited for future political outcomes.

Latin America Politics

FARC isn’t the biggest threat to Colombia’s political establishment

A new political force is set to hijack post-conflict politics in Colombia, and it’s not going to be the FARC. Will an outsider candidate take the 2018 Colombian elections? Informally,

Economics Latin America

What to expect in Latin America in 2016

Economic decline in dominant industries, worsening security in major urban centers, and high profile corruption accusations will continue to hinder development in Latin America in 2016. In the Latin American

Latin America Politics

Guatemala holds its politicians accountable, offering lessons for Latin America

The recent resignation and indictment of Guatemalan President Otto Perez Molina demonstrate the potential of international investigative and prosecutorial commissions in holding national institutions and politicians accountable. Political corruption in the Latin

Latin America Politics

America’s ballooning student debt: Lessons learned from Chile

Public discontent over for-profit university financing schemes in the United States could present serious sociopolitical and economic challenges. The 2011 student protests in Chile serve as a sobering example of

Economics Latin America

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

North America Politics

US immigration standoff highlights economic opportunity

As the immigration topic is once again debated in the U.S. House of Representatives, the populist branch of the Republican party should accept that economic integration will stimulate, not harm, state

Economics Latin America

Pacific Alliance “Health Check” after CELAC summit

The Pacific Alliance economies will likely face slower growth in 2015, requiring the trade bloc to seek partnerships in India and East Asia as well as stronger relations with the

Latin America Politics

Failed coup diverts attention from Venezuela’s currency devaluation

An alleged coup attempt on the government of Venezuela and following protests has diverted attention from the most drastic economic decision taken by the Maduro administration—liberalizing the exchange rate regime. On

Economics Latin America

What to expect in Latin America in 2015

In 2015, Latin America’s dominant extractive industries will have to deal with lower prices and lower international demand. But with political and economic challenges building, many governments may find themselves unable