战略与国际研究中心-Hemisphere-Highlights,-Volume-IX-Issue-2_7页_571kb

报告摘要

HEMISPHERE HIGHLIGHTS Summary

Core Content

HEMISPHERE HIGHLIGHTS is a publication by the Americas Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), providing an overview of political, economic, and social developments in the Americas. The February 2010 issue covers key events and trends in the region, including the formation of new regional organizations, U.S. aid policy shifts, and ongoing disputes involving energy and sovereignty.

Main Events and Developments

Upcoming Event

Date: March 17, 2010
Location: Conference Room B1
Topic: "Chronic Diseases along the U.S.-Mexico Border"
RSVP: americas@csis.org

Past Event

Date: February 22, 2010
Location: Conference Room B1
Topic: "Cuba Health Reform"
Audio: Available at www.csis.org/americas

Regional Developments

New Regional Organization

A new regional organization was formed by 32 Latin American and Caribbean countries, excluding the U.S. and Canada.
It condemned the U.S. embargo against Cuba and supported Argentina in its dispute with the UK over the Falkland Islands.
This reflects a growing trend of regional cooperation and a desire to reduce U.S. influence in the hemisphere.

U.S. Aid Cuts to Latin America

The U.S. proposed a 2011 budget that includes significant cuts in aid to Latin America.
The cuts are mainly due to the completion of initial phases of aid programs in Mexico and Colombia.
Mexico: The Merida Initiative's high-cost items (e.g., helicopters) contributed to a 30% aid reduction. The new focus is on health, while economic aid remains stable.
Colombia: Plan Colombia's aid to the region will decrease by ~11%, but the antinarcotics program and judicial reforms will continue to receive funding.
The shift indicates a move toward a less military-oriented and more development-focused aid strategy.

North America

Canada and Haiti

Canada pledged $12 million for the construction of Haitian government administrative buildings.
The funds include a semi-permanent structure with electricity and office equipment.
Canada deployed 1,000 military personnel and provided security and transportation support for food distribution in Haiti.
Canada remains a key player in international disaster relief.

Mexico

Anti-Kidnapping Legislation

President Calderón proposed new legislation to combat kidnapping, including expanded government authority to intercept private communications, stiffer penalties, and improved support for victims.
The legislation also allows for the suspension of service to clients under investigation.
The move comes after public pressure, especially following the 2008 kidnapping and murder of Fernando Martínez.

Narco-Financing in Agriculture

Drug cartels are now the principal funders in 30% of cultivated areas.
Federal subsidy programs like Procampo are accused of being undermined by narco-traffickers.
The Supreme Agrarian Tribunal noted that criminal organizations influence about one-third of cultivated land, where both legal and illegal crops are grown.
This raises national security concerns, both from the spread of narco-influence and the government's ability to control the agrarian sector.
Reform of agrarian programs is suggested to address inequality and reduce narco-financing.

Andean Region

Ecuador: Indigenous Protests

Indigenous groups, led by CONAIE, called for an "uprising" against President Correa's policies.
The protests focus on water management laws, open-pit mining, and oil drilling in indigenous regions.
CONAIE claims the government is not addressing their concerns and is instead promoting neoliberal policies.
Correa has been accused of undermining traditional indigenous political groups and has labeled the protests as "separatist."

Colombia: Electoral Changes

The Constitutional Court rejected President Uribe's bid for a third term, altering the political landscape.
Uribe remains popular, with 70% favorable rating, but his influence is now limited to supporting candidates.
The court's decision was generally well-received, though public opinion is divided.
The next president is likely to align with Uribe's security policies while taking more independent stances on other issues.

Venezuela and Colombia

Venezuela is negotiating with Colombia to purchase energy due to a severe energy crisis.
The Guri Dam, which provides 70% of Venezuela's energy, has dangerously low water levels.
Colombia has resumed energy talks with Venezuela, despite high diplomatic tensions.
The negotiations also coincide with the decision of Chávez and Uribe to accept regional mediation, possibly signaling a thaw in relations.

Southern Cone

Argentina and the Falkland Islands

Argentina detained a British vessel for illegally delivering oil supplies to the Falkland Islands.
The dispute over oil drilling rights in the islands has escalated, with three British firms planning to drill in the North Falklands basin.
Argentina has issued a decree requiring permission for any vessel entering its jurisdictional waters.
The UK has responded by claiming the islands will be "properly protected," leading to accusations of threatening war.
Argentina has also received support from Latin American and Caribbean leaders at the Unity Summit.

Key Themes

Regional Cooperation: A growing trend of regional organizations excluding the U.S. and Canada, aiming to assert independence.
U.S. Policy Shifts: The U.S. is reducing military aid to Latin America and shifting toward development-focused programs.
Security and Justice: Increased focus on combating kidnapping and narco-trafficking, with legislative and institutional reforms.
Indigenous Rights: Protests in Ecuador highlight the ongoing struggle for indigenous autonomy and environmental protection.
Energy and Sovereignty: Disputes over energy resources and territorial claims, particularly in the Falkland Islands, continue to affect bilateral relations.