Posts From Niall Walsh
Can Spain’s new government resolve the issue of Catalan independence?
Spain’s new Socialist-led government has adopted a more diplomatic approach to the question of Catalan independence, but is defiant that Spanish unity will not be compromised. How will this strategy balance out and affect the political landscape in Catalonia and across Spain?
China’s strategic influence is growing in the Americas
At a time of reduced US influence, China’s economic and political ventures in Latin America will pay dividends.
Chinese economic interests and the threat to EU cohesion
Today, some of Europe’s poorest countries are critical to China’s global economic development strategy. Under the 16+1 sub-regional framework, which includes eleven countries from central and eastern Europe and five from the Balkans (CEEC), China is pursuing investment opportunities in infrastructure in order to enhance its connectivity with the European region.
Venezuela crisis spills over into Colombia
Colombia’s immigration crisis represents an unprecedented challenge, raising political instability and threatening the peace deal that took decades to achieve.
Catalonia: the rise of Ciudadanos
Elections in Catalonia delivered a blow to Madrid and provided separatists with a relative victory. They also cemented the rise of the Ciudadanos party, with implications for Spain’s national politics.
Trump and the ‘normalisation’ of relations with Cuba
On 8 November, Washington imposed fresh sanctions on Cuba, targeting the tourism and business industries. Is this a return to Cold War politics?
Elections in Chile: The return of the right
With Pinera likely to win upcoming elections in Chile, GRI’s Niall Walsh examines the trends behind the election and looks at their long-term consequences.
Lopez Obrador, the Mexican Messiah?
The presidential campaign of Lopez Obrador, or AMLO, poses a serious threat to the political establishment in Mexico – and to Mexico’s relationship with some of Latin America’s leading economies.
Catalonia’s biggest threat is internal
Amid the political crisis in Catalonia, the ‘silent majority’ in favor of union is becoming more conspicuous. It is likely that the rift will deepen.
Russia’s growing influence in Venezuela is part of a wider strategy
Russia’s investments in Venezuela show that the Kremlin stands ready to make strategic gains from America’s growing insularity.
