Americas Program
A leading source of ideas defining the future of national security, analyzing geopolitical trends, and addressing key political, economic, and social challenges facing the region
The Program was established with the clear, forward-looking mission to elevate the policy discussion on the Western Hemisphere. The program aims to influence through timely, practical, and insightful analysis and policy recommendations for partners in the United States and the region.
The Americas Program focuses on six thematic priorities:
- Regional security, particularly in Mexico, the Northern Triangle, Colombia, and the impact of the Venezuelan crisis on the region.
- The long-term impact of China’s rise and great-power rivalry in the Americas.
- Democratic backsliding and the rise of autocracies.
- The resurgence of transnational criminal organizations, growing illicit economies, and the existence of criminal regimes.
- Weak rule of law, endemic corruption, and human rights violations.
- The emergence of significant regional powers, such as Brazil, in an increasingly multipolar world.
Contact Information
- Henry Ziemer
- Program Coordinator and Research Assistant, Americas Program
- 202.775.3244
- HZiemer@csis.org
Featured Analysis

Photo: ORLANDO SIERRA/AFP/Getty Images
Prosperity Must Be a Cornerstone of Fostering Honduran Democracy
CSIS Americas director Ryan C. Berg responds to criticisms of the Zones for Employment and Economic Development in Honduras, and argues they represent an important mechanism for economic growth and nearshoring.
Commentary by Ryan C. Berg — January 26, 2023
Featured Event
Mining, Climate Risks, and the Western Hemisphere
All content by Americas Program
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Six Things for Biden and Bolsonaro to Discuss on the Summit Sidelines
Commentary by Daniel F. Runde and Ryan C. Berg — June 6, 2022

Three Things That Won't Be Talked about Enough at the Summit of the Americas
Commentary by Juan Cruz , Henry Ziemer , and Francisco de Santibañes — May 31, 2022

USAID MujerProspera / WomanProsper Winners Announcement Event: “Advancing Gender Equality in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras”
Event by Ryan C. Berg , Samantha Power , Jamille Bigio , Maria Nelly Rivas , Michael Camilleri , Denisse McClean Rodriguez , Ana Landa , and Mirna Regina Valiente — May 26, 2022


Canada Urgently Needs to Rethink Its National Security Strategy
Commentary by Vincent Rigby and Thomas Juneau — May 24, 2022

Immigration Reform Gridlock with Congressman Filemon Vela Jr.
Podcast Episode by Mariana Campero — May 18, 2022

The Return to Mexico
Commentary by Antonio De La Cruz — May 18, 2022

What Lies Ahead for the Zones for Employment and Economic Development in Honduras?
Event by Ryan C. Berg , Dr. Riddhi "Sohan" Dasgupta , Kathia Yacamán , and Welby Leaman — May 16, 2022


The Future of the Zones for Employment and Economic Development in Honduras
Podcast Episode by Ryan C. Berg — May 5, 2022
