Argentina
Populism, economy, business, and energy are Argentina's most regular contributions to the international stage. With the recent election of Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, the current president's wife, domestic policies are expected to remain in place while a more agressive international diplomacy may be a theme for the next administration.
(International Relations and Security Network, 26/11/2007)
In a region where the military is often asked to perform police duties, a regional police force has formed to combat that tendency, but a number of challenges remain.
(International Relations and Security Network, 05/09/2007)
Despite a string of scandals, shady inflation numbers and other questionable practices, Argentines are set to elect another Kirchner.
(International Relations and Security Network, 05/04/2007)
The anniversary of the Falklands War gives Argentine President Nestor Kirchner an opportunity to stoke popular support ahead of elections, but it's unlikely he will have such perfect timing again.
Russia's Race to Arm the Americas
(International Relations and Security Network, 01/12/2006)
Rather than focus on a non-existent arms race in South America, US leaders, like leaders in Russia, should focus on improving military-military ties with Latin American countries.
An Alternative to a Failed MercoSur
(International Relations and Security Network, 09/08/2006)
In a region where loud voices of integration shout over a reality of failed trade policies, Chile's alternative to access to the Pacific may be a viable solution.
Kirchner Improves Support Base in Congress
(International Relations and Security Network, 24/10/2005)
Argentine President Nestor Kirchner managed to strengthen his support base in the Congress when final results from weekend elections showed his backers took control of the Senate and became the largest bloc in the lower house.
Politics and Energy Crisis in South America
(International Relations and Security Network, 30/09/2005)
Political challenges hinder the regional integration of natural gas networks, considered a route to increased regional energy security, in South America.
Populist Policies Threaten Argentina's Economy
(International Relations and Security Network, 23/09/2005)
Nestor Kirchner continues to attack the IMF because it's popular at home, but what he fails to tell his people is that the Argentine economy is still very fragile and his mishandling could lead Argentines back down the road to recession.
China's Interest in Latin America: A Cause for Worry?
(Americas Policy, 28/08/2005)
China's increased footprint in Latin America is a cause for worry in Washington and a reason to hope for a better future in Latin America. What are the longterm outcomes of China's presence in Latin America?
China Entices South America with Investment
(International Relations and Security Network, 04/08/2005)
China's grand economic entrance into South America has some observers worried about a possible shift in the balance of power in the Western Hemisphere.
