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:

  1. The authoritarian regimes in Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Cuba as well as democratic backsliding in other countries as a driver of regional instability.
  2. Economic development, strengthening supply chains, forging closer trade linkages between the United States and the region, and nearshoring critical industries.
  3. 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.
  4. Security, especially transnational criminal organizations and illicit economies, particularly in Mexico, the Northern Triangle, and Colombia.
  5. Governance challenges and their effects, including weak rule of law, endemic corruption, migration, inequality, and human rights violations.
  6. Civil-military relations and defense cooperation.

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Projects

Featured Analysis

Photo: MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images

Photo: MANDEL NGAN/AFP/Getty Images

Effects of the Trump Administration’s Tariff Threats Against Canada and Mexico

CSIS Americas Deputy Director and Senior Fellow Christopher Hernandez-Roy describes how U.S. rhetoric and trade threats are causing Canada and Mexico to rethink their relationship with their neighbor.

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Commentary by Christopher Hernandez-Roy — March 31, 2025

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Mexico Matters

Brazil’s Protectionist Model Should Be No Guide for the US

In this episode, Mariana speaks with Pedro Pullen Parente, a remarkable Brazilian public servant and businessmen.  Pedro was previously Minister of Planning, Chief of Staff, Minister of Mines and Energy under President Cardoso.

Podcast Episode by Mariana Campero — April 23, 2025

CSIS Mexico Matters
35 West

Canada First or Canada Strong?

In this episode, Christopher Hernandez-Roy sits down with Paul Wells, a veteran journalist and author on Canadian politics and public affairs.

Podcast Episode by Christopher Hernandez-Roy — April 17, 2025

CSIS 35 West

Advancing U.S.-Panama Security Cooperation

CSIS Americas Program Director Ryan C. Berg analyzes the outcomes from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s recent visit to Panama and implications for the future of U.S.-Panama relations.

Commentary by Ryan C. Berg — April 16, 2025