Latin American Program
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Beating President Hugo Chávez means striking an emotional link stronger than the charismatic incumbent’s enduring populist appeal, says Caracas pollster Luis Vicente León. And it requires convincingly sticking Venezuela’s chronic ills to his decade-plus rule. For Venezuela’s historically divided opposition, which enters a key test of unity this weekend, one-upping Chávez in the hearts of voters will be vital to winning this fall’s presidential election. León and William H. Luers, former U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela, gauge the current field of candidates and look ahead to October's general election. more
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The Latin American Program and its institutes on Mexico and Brazil serve as a bridge between the United States and Latin America, providing a nonpartisan forum for experts from throughout the region and the world to discuss the most critical issues facing the Hemisphere. The Program sponsors research, conferences, and publications aimed at deepening the understanding of Latin American and Caribbean politics, history, economics, culture, and U.S.-Latin American relations. By bringing pressing regional concerns to the attention of opinion leaders and policymakers, the Program contributes to more informed policy choices in Washington, D.C., and throughout the Hemisphere. more
The Latest from the Latin American Program
Latin American Program in the News: Venezuela's Chavez says his cancer is likely back
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Feb 22, 2012
President Chavez reveals that he needs to return to Cuba to have a lesion removed. This may prove a major hurdle in his quest for re-election. Director of the Latin American Program Cynthia Arnson argues that this will be a major factor that will make "the race even tighter" against Capriles. more
Latin American Program in the News: US Senators Warn Latin America on Iran Ties
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Feb 17, 2012
The Senate Foreign Relations Committee Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Peace Corps, and Global Narcotics Affairs held a hearing on February 16, 2012 on Iran’s relationship and influence in Latin America. Director Cynthia J. Arnson was among the witnesses. more
Cold Welcome for Iran in Latin America; ‘Vigilance’ Still Needed
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Feb 16, 2012
Several Latin American governments, which a few years ago joined in showy displays of anti-U.S. solidarity, are now distancing themselves from the Ahmadinejad regime, as tensions rise over Iran’s controversial nuclear policies and new administrations take over in key capitals, The Wilson Center’s Latin America Program director said Thursday. Briefing senators on Iran’s activities in the region, Cindy Arnson added that “vigilance” still remains necessary, to guard against any state or nonstate threat in the region. “Vigilance is essential, as is evidence-based consideration of the issues,” she told the subcommittee’s hearing on Iranian activities in Latin America. more
Latin American Program in the News: Pérez, abierto a la legalización
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Feb 14, 2012
Otto Perez Molina will likely propose drug legalization at the next summit of regional leaders. Dr. Cynthia Arnson, Director of the Latin American Program, discusses how the initiative comes in response to the frustration over the current drug policy that has defined the region over the past few decades. She argues that even though it may not be implemented, it is a message that is icreasingly becoming part of the discussion in the region. [Article is in Spanish] more
Challenging Chávez: What to Expect From Sunday's Venezuelan Primary
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Feb 06, 2012
Beating President Hugo Chávez means striking an emotional link stronger than the charismatic incumbent’s enduring populist appeal, says Caracas pollster Luis Vicente León. And it requires convincingly sticking Venezuela’s chronic ills to his decade-plus rule. For Venezuela’s historically divided opposition, which enters a key test of unity this weekend, one-upping Chávez in the hearts of voters will be vital to winning this fall’s presidential election. León and William H. Luers, former U.S. Ambassador to Venezuela, gauge the current field of candidates and look ahead to October's general election. more
