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:
- The authoritarian regimes in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba as well as democratic backsliding in other countries as a driver of regional instability.
- Economic development, strengthening supply chains, forging closer trade linkages between the United States and the region, and nearshoring critical industries.
- The long-term impact of China’s rise, the continued relevance of Russia and other extra-hemispheric powers, in a region shaped by strategic rivalry.
- Security, especially transnational criminal organizations and illicit economies, particularly in Mexico, the Northern Triangle, and Colombia.
- Governance challenges and their effects, including weak rule of law, endemic corruption, migration, inequality, and human rights violations.
- Civil-military relations and defense cooperation.
Contact Information
- Henry Ziemer
- Research Associate, Americas Program
- 202.775.3244
- HZiemer@csis.org
Featured Analysis

Photo:STR/AFP/Getty Images
Paper Tiger or Pacing Threat?
CSIS Americas Director Ryan C. Berg and Henry Ziemer evaluate China's advances in the security and defense sector across Latin America and the Caribbean, and discuss options for U.S. responses.
Report by Ryan C. Berg and Henry Ziemer — October 19, 2023
Featured Event
Prospects and Pitfalls for Security Assistance in Haiti
In the News
In Brief: Milei Wins in Argentina
Ryan C. Berg in War on the Rocks — November 29, 2023
Las elecciones de 2024 vistas desde un Think Tank extranjero
Ryan C. Berg in El Universal — November 26, 2023
Argentina’s New Leader Is an Inflation Hawk. That’s What Got Him Elected.
Ryan C. Berg in Barrons — November 21, 2023
APEC unites on WTO reform, as war frays ties
Ryan C. Berg in Politico — November 20, 2023
Washington's easing of Venezuela oil sanctions stirs up questions
Ryan C. Berg in CNA — November 17, 2023
Industry shields up for de minimis threshold
Ryan C. Berg in Politico — November 6, 2023
Venezuelan opposition leader vows to contest election despite ban
Ryan C. Berg in Financial Times — November 2, 2023
Comparing China’s Engagement in Africa and Latin America
Evan Ellis in The Diplomat — October 27, 2023
All Americas Program Content
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A Conversation with General John F. Kelly, Commander, U.S. Southern Command
Event — May 16, 2013
Is Japan’s entry into the Trans-Pacific Partnership good for the Americas?
Critical Questions by Carl Meacham — May 16, 2013
President Obama’s Trip to Mexico and Costa Rica: What was the Outcome?
Critical Questions by Carl Meacham — May 9, 2013
The Last Mile
Event — May 7, 2013
President Obama's Visit to Mexico and Costa Rica
Event — May 7, 2013
Haiti's Education Sector: What are the Obstacles?
Event — April 30, 2013
Canada's Immigration Model: What can be Learned?
Event — April 30, 2013
CSIS Press Briefing: President Obama's Visit to Mexico and Costa Rica
Event — April 29, 2013
The Aftermath of Venezuela’s Election: Headed for a Default?
Critical Questions by Carl Meacham — April 25, 2013
Silicon Valley vs. South America
Event — April 19, 2013