Volume XVIII – Number 1
Howard J. Wiarda
Abstract: The United States and Latin America have each undergone significant and profound transformations in the last twenty years. This article argues that the US should therefore adopt a new Latin American policy that reconciles the new hemispheric realities with a sound, prudent, and realistic foreign policy towards the area. The special relationship between the US and Latin America is examined, and this article addresses a series of misconceptions and fundamental conceptual problems between the two, such as Latin America being a low priority in US foreign policy. Also, new realities have added complexity to their relationship, as the US is in a weaker position on the continent than they have been in the past, and Latin America is enjoying an increased amount of independence. This independence has led to more economic problems between the two, as opposed to political and ideological problems, as the US is lending less aid through assistance programs. Realities such as these have consistently hindered US-Latin American relations. The new Latin American policy must be realistic and foster greater understanding and empathy through cultural relativism, through which the US can become more accessible to Latin America while still being a leader in the region in both the politico-strategic and economic spheres.
Keywords: United States, Latin America, Foreign Policy, Realities, Dimensions
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