Latin American Instability: A Major Threat To The US
Abstract
Latin America is a neighbor to the US within the western hemisphere. The close proximity and the economic reliance between the US and Latin America make its development essential to our national interests of security and prosperity. Traditionally Latin America has faced political, economic, and social instability that threatens not just a single country but the entire region. Any one or a combination has the capability to destabilize not just one country but the entire region. Any combination of instability provides opportunities for non-state or sub-state actors to flourish. Non-state and sub-state actors are seen in two forms within Latin America. Narco-terrorist and drug cartels are the most predominant form which has been a problem area for the US for years. The second form is Islamic fundamentalists who have a history in the region and the capability to increase their operation if they chose to do so. The US has traditionally applied diplomatic, information, military, and economic instruments of national power to address security and stability in Latin America. However, these instruments have been applied haphazardly. As the threat of instability grows in Latin America, the US must apply these elements in a coherent manner. By integrating all instruments of national power into a consolidated approach to the entire region, the US will be able to counteract the effects of instability within Latin America.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 04, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA487122
Entities
People
- Stewart A. Hammons
Organizations
- National Defense University