Latin America Publications
Organized Crime in Central America: The Northern Triangle
Sep 14, 2011This publication attempts to create a better understanding of the nature, origins, and evolution of organized crime in Central America by examining the dynamics of organized crime in the three countries of the so-called Northern Triangle as well as the broader regional context that links these case studies. more
The Cuban Economy: Recent Trends
Aug 01, 2011This publication examines the contemporary state of Cuba’s economy at a time of great transformation through the use of econometric and other macroeconomic analysis tools. more
US Immigration Policy Since 9/11: Understanding the Stalemate over Comprehensive Immigration Reform
Aug 01, 2011This report reviews the recent history of US immigration legislation, including new enforcement mandates passed immediately after 9/11 and unsuccessful efforts to pass CIR bills during the 109th and 110th Congresses. This history, together with asymmetries in the political process that favor enforcement-oriented responses, stack the deck against legalization and visa reform. Any possibility of success was further hurt by the timing of the reform debate with respect to the national electoral calendar in 2006-07 and the economic downturn beginning in 2008. more
US Immigration Policy and Mexican/Central American Migration Flows: Then and Now
Aug 01, 2011Young, low-skilled immigrants perform essential work, but the rapid growth of low-wage, limited English proficient (LEP), unauthorized populations in states with limited migration experience has contributed to increased anti-immigrant sentiment. Forty years into the current wave of regional migration, and after 25 years of increasingly serious enforcement efforts, this history also defines and limits the policy alternatives available, and highlights the challenges of managing regional flows. more
Security and Trade in Central America
Jul 07, 2011The Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars sponsored a
congressional study trip to El Salvador and Guatemala from April 13 through April
18, 2009. It was organized by the Wilson Center on the Hill Program and the Latin
American Program at the Wilson Center. The trip focused on two issues that are critical for the United States’ relationships with countries across Central America – security and economic
development. more
Whither Cuba? The Role of Religion
Jul 07, 2011This paper explores the role that religion plays in Cuban civil society and examines whether religions can facilitate change. more
