The Dilemma of Oil Sanctions and Democratic Progress
The United States must consider its next steps, as the temporary license to ease restrictions on Venezuela’s oil sanction is set to expire on Thursday. The agreement's condition, which provides necessary breathing room for Venezuela's oil and gas sectors, would depend on President Nicolas Maduro making democratic progress by the upcoming election date of July 28.
Violence Against Political Candidates Threatens Mexican Democracy
In the lead-up to Mexico's largest election, a wave of violence against political candidates has cast a shadow over the country's democratic process. The targeting of candidates by organized crime groups seeking to influence the outcome of elections has raised serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the safety of those participating in it.
Latin American countries torn over warfare in the Middle East
In an interview on Dec. 6th with the IR Insider, Jorge G. Castañeda, former Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Mexico and Professor of Latin American and Caribbean Studies at New York University, shared his insights on the different positions of Latin American countries on the Israel-Hamas War.
Venezuela-Guyana Border Dispute Sparks Concern Across the Globe
The longstanding territorial dispute between Venezuela and Guyana has escalated in recent weeks, drawing international attention and raising concerns over the potential for a broader conflict. At the heart of the matter is the oil-rich Esequibo region, spanning over 160,000 square kilometers, where significant oil and gas reserves have been discovered.
Arrest of Opposition Member in Venezuela Underscores Challenges to Freedom of Expression
On Nov. 22, Nelson Piñero, a prominent Venezuelan activist and a member of the opposition party Encuentro Ciudadano, was arrested within the confines of his own home. The charges levied against Piñero were centered around accusations of incitement of hatred.
US House Begins Appropriations Vote, Weighing Support for Ukraine Against Stricter Border Policies
Chuck Schumer announced that the vote on Biden’s request for billions in Ukraine and Israel assistance would occur as soon as the week of Dec. 4. The vote combines the highly divisive issue of immigration policy with the less-partisan issue of funding for Ukraine and Israel.