It is hard to imagine exactly what kind of deal Bolsonaro and Trump, both anomalous, unconventional leaders, drawn to one another mainly by temperament and ideology, could strike with another. Could they really end up accomplishing what previous governments in both countries had failed to achieve? Could they forge an alliance between two countries that have long maintained a rather distant and often distrustful relationship?Read more +
Recent global developments offer substantial evidence that the so-called liberal or rule-based international order, set in place in the aftermath of World War II, is fast eroding with no replacement in sight. The important question now is how governments across the globe should be adjusting to the systemic changes taking place in world politics and the new risks they pose. Read more +
After little more than a year of tension-filled talks, US and Mexican negotiators have reached a preliminary agreement that would largely preserve, in both concept and content, the original NAFTA. But for both Mexico and Canada, the uncertain and painful renegotiation of NAFTA comes with high costs beyond the expected economic losses. Resolving the NAFTA dispute will not repair the damage Trump has inflicted on US relations with both Mexico and Canada. Read more +
With a constant stream of offensive and intimidating rhetoric addressed to Mexico, compounded by a mean-spirited and highly contentious set of policy proposals, Trump himself is largely responsible for the sharp deterioration in bilateral ties in the past two years. Read more +
This is an anxious, unsettled moment for Cuba. Its economy is faltering badly and could face a prolonged crisis. The nation’s leadership is on the verge of a critical turning point following the recent death of Fidel Castro and the likely retirement early next year of Raul Castro—who together have ruled the island with an iron hand for nearly 60 years.Read more +
Vice President Michel Temer has assumed the Brazilian presidency on an interim basis. An end to Brazil's trauma depends on his government’s performance, particularly in its success in reviving the country’s economy.Read more +