After losing its window of opportunity to close the deal in December 2023 and with EU farmers’ protests taking over Europe, the EU-Mercosur agreement is suffering a new major setback. The slow integration process within Mercosur and the increasing rivalries and criticism within it are also influencing the outcome at the negotiating table. How does the deal’s future look like?
As tensions rise between the United States and Venezuela ahead of their upcoming presidential elections, the delicate balance of democracy and diplomacy comes into focus. The US had eased sanctions to encourage dialogue, but recent events have sparked renewed friction, leading to the reimposition of sanctions. Venezuela is grappling with economic challenges and diplomatic strains, especially with recent bans on opposition candidates. As both countries navigate these issues, the future of US-Venezuela relations is uncertain, with potential impacts beyond their borders.
In January, Ecuador experienced a surge of violence, prompting swift responses from both local and international actors. The United States pledged substantial aid to bolster Ecuador’s security infrastructure, marking a significant collaboration. However, this cooperation differs from the historic Plan Colombia due to distinct challenges Ecuador faces, including its role as a transit corridor for drug trafficking.
Daniel Noboa, Ecuador’s new president, is facing severe challenges with drug-related violence escalating. Gang wars have intensified following gangster ‘Fito’s’ escape, resulting in numerous attacks, including a notably violent incident at TC Television. Noboa declared a state of emergency, involved the military, and won unprecedented parliamentary support despite lacking a majority. With Ecuador becoming an international drug hub, his militarized strategy and international cooperation are crucial to his presidency’s success.
The Venezuela-Guyana Essequibo dispute reignited in 2015 with ExxonMobil’s oil discovery, escalating under Maduro’s sovereignty claims. Recent actions include a contentious referendum and military exercises. Historical efforts temporarily eased tensions, but post-2015 incidents strained relations. Analysts view a Venezuelan military move as improbable, given global opposition, economic challenges, and unfavorable court rulings. Tensions persist, but military actions seem driven more by domestic considerations than a genuine threat.
The article analyzes the unexpected nature of Brazil’s decision to join OPEC+. It does so by highlighting President Lula’s environmental commitments and Brazil’s growing role on the international stage.
The Center for Global Development organized a discussion based on the World Bank’s January 2024 “Global Economic Prospects” report. Ayhan …
Colombian President Gustavo Petro unveils a 10-year anti-drug policy aiming to reduce cocaine production by 43% through “oxygen” (economic alternatives for coca farmers) and “asphyxiation” (fighting trafficking networks). This plan’s success links to Petro’s “Total Peace” initiative to end violence. Security, investments, and political stability are vital for success.
This article examines how Argentine congressman Javier Milei has firmly positioned himself as one of the frontrunners in the upcoming presidential elections. This is in spite of his controversial views and radical proposals, which begs the question, will he actually be able to pull off this huge victory in one of South America’s largest states?
In October 2022, Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry urgently requested international military assistance to address a security crisis exacerbated by blockades imposed by criminal gangs. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres supported the need for a specialized armed force to assist the Haitian National Police. However, concerns related to previous foreign interventions and strong opposition from some Haitians, rooted in historical distrust, have complicated efforts. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a culturally sensitive solution through diplomacy and dialogue to address Haiti’s challenges.
