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China's Engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean [Updated May 18, 2021]
From the Document: "As the People's Republic of China (PRC) has increased its engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) over the past 20 years, U.S. policymakers have raised questions regarding potential implications for U.S. interests in the region. China's engagement with the region has grown significantly since 2001, particularly in terms of diplomatic and economic ties. This growth reflects China's global 'soft power' efforts and 'influence operations' worldwide. A succession of Chinese leaders and other officials have visited the region to court governments. In turn, regional leaders and officials have frequently visited China. The PRC has signed a variety of bilateral partnership agreements with countries throughout the region, including 'comprehensive strategic partnerships' with Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Lum, Thomas G. (Thomas Gong), 1961-
2021-05-18
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Cuba: U.S. Restrictions on Travel and Remittances [Updated May 11, 2021]
From the Summary: "Restrictions on travel and remittances to Cuba have constituted a key and often contentious component in U.S. efforts to isolate Cuba's communist government since the early 1960s. Such restrictions are largely part of the Cuban Assets Control Regulations (CACR), the overall embargo regulations administered by the Department of the Treasury's Office ofForeign Assets Control (OFAC), as well as certain parts of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), administered by the Department of Commerce. Various Administrations have eased and tightened these restrictions over the years as U.S. policy toward Cuba has changed. [...] The Biden Administration thus far has not taken any action regarding U.S. restrictions on travel and remittances to Cuba, although the Administration maintains it is committed to reviewing policy decisions made in the prior Administration."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2021-05-11
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Cuba: U.S. Policy Overview [Updated May 14, 2021]
From the Document: "Since the early 1960s, when the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuba, the centerpiece of U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted of economic sanctions aimed at isolating the Cuban government. [...] Sanctions imposed under the Trump Administration remain in place to date under the Biden Administration. During the U.S. election campaign, Biden said he would reverse Trump Administration policies that harmed the Cuban people without advancing democracy and human rights. The White House press secretary said on March 9 that although a Cuba policy shift was not among the President's top priorities, the Administration was 'committed to making human rights a core pillar' of policy and 'committed to carefully reviewing policy decisions made in the prior administration, including the decision to designate Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2021-05-14
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Latin America and the Caribbean: U.S. Policy Overview [Updated May 24, 2021]
From the Document: "U.S. interests in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) are diverse and include economic, political, security, and humanitarian concerns. Geographic proximity has ensured strong economic linkages between the United States and LAC, with the United States a major trading partner and source of foreign investment for many regional countries. Free-trade agreements (FTAs) have augmented U.S. economic relations with 11 countries in the region. LAC also is a large sourceof U.S. immigration, both authorized and unauthorized; economic and security conditions are major factors driving migration trends."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2021-05-24
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Caribbean Region: Issues in U.S. Relations [Updated January 25, 2006]
"With some 34 million people and 16 independent nations sharing an African ethnic heritage, the Caribbean is a diverse region that includes some of the hemisphere's richest and poorest nations. The region consists of 13 island nations, from the Bahamas in the north to Trinidad and Tobago in the south; Belize, which is geographically located in Central America; and the two nations of Guyana and Suriname, located on the north central coast of South America. With the exception of Cuba and Haiti, Caribbean governments have generally respected the human rights of their citizens. Regular elections are the norm, and for the most part have been free and fair. Nevertheless, while many Caribbean nations have long democratic traditions, they are not immune to threats to their political stability, including terrorism. Many nations in the region experienced economic decline in 2001-2002 due to downturns in the tourism and agriculture sectors. With the exception of Haiti, most Caribbean economies have rebounded since 2003, although the extensive damage resulting from several storms in 2004 caused economic difficulties for several Caribbean nations. U.S. interests in the Caribbean are diverse, and include economic, political, and security concerns. The Bush Administration describes the Caribbean as America's 'third border,' with events in the region having a direct impact on the homeland security of the United States. It maintains that Caribbean nations are 'vital partners on security, trade, health, the environment, education, regional democracy, and other hemispheric issues.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2006-01-25
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Latin America and the Caribbean: U.S. Policy and Key Issues in the 117th Congress [May 3, 2021]
From the Summary: "The United States maintains strong linkages with neighboring Latin America and the Caribbean based on geographic proximity and diverse U.S. interests, including economic, political, and security concerns. The United States is a major trading partner and source of foreign investment for many of the 33 countries in the region, with free-trade agreements enhancing economic linkages with 11 countries. The region is a large source of U.S. immigration, both authorized and irregular; major factors driving migration include proximity and economic and security conditions. [...] Congress traditionally has played an active role in policy toward Latin America and the Caribbean through both legislation and oversight. In March 2021, Congress passed into law the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (P.L. [public law] 117-2), which included $9.755 billion for foreign assistance to respond to COVID-19 [coronavirus disease 2019] globally, and the House approved H.R. 6, which would provide a pathway to citizenship for those brought to the United States as children and those from countries with temporary protected status (currently including El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Venezuela). [...] To date, congressional hearings have focused on Venezuela, Haiti, the state of democracy in the region, and the root causes of Central American migration. Looking ahead, Congress will likely consider the Administration's FY2022 foreign aid budget request, which, according to the Administration's budget blueprint, will include assistance to address the root causes of migration from Central America."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Beittel, June S.; Meyer, Peter J. . . .
2021-05-03
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Cuba: U.S. Policy in the 115th Congress [May 26, 2017]
From the Summary: "Cuba remains a one-party authoritarian state with a poor record on human rights. Current President Raúl Castro succeeded his long-ruling brother Fidel Castro in 2006, and the succession was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Raúl began his second and final five-year term as president in 2013, which is scheduled to end in February 2018, when he would be 86 years of age. Most observers see First Vice President Miguel Diaz-Canel as the "heir apparent" as president, although Raúl likely will continue in his position as first secretary of Cuba's Communist Party (PCC). Under Raúl, Cuba has implemented gradual market-oriented economic policy changes over the past decade, but critics maintain that the government has not taken enough action to foster sustainable economic growth. Few observers expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system, especially as the country approaches its political succession in 2018. Short-term detentions and harassment against democracy and human rights activists have increased over the past several years."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2017-05-26
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Honduran-U.S. Relations [June 8, 2009]
"The Central American nation of Honduras, one of the hemisphere's poorest countries, faces significant challenges in the areas of crime, human rights, and improving overall economic and living conditions. While traditional agricultural exports of coffee and bananas are still important for the economy, nontraditional sectors, especially the maquiladora, or export-processing industry, have grown significantly over the past decade. Among the country's development challenges are a poverty rate over 60%, high infant mortality, and a significant HIV/AIDS epidemic. Despite these challenges, increased public spending on health and education have reaped significant improvements in development indicators over the past decade. Current President Manuel Zelaya of the Liberal Party won a four-year term in the November 2005 elections. The country has enjoyed 27 years of uninterrupted elected civilian democratic rule. The economy, which grew 6.3% in 2007 and is expected to have grown 4% in 2008, has benefitted from significant debt reduction by the international financial institutions that is freeing government resources to finance poverty-reduction programs. However, the U.S. recession and global financial crisis will likely slow Honduran economic growth sharply in 2009."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Meyer, Peter J.
2009-06-08
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Cuba: Issues for the 111th Congress [September 4, 2009]
This report describes the main issues and developments in U.S. policy toward Cuba. "Cuba remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Fidel stepped down from power temporarily in July 2006 because of health reasons, and Raúl assumed provisional control of the government until February 2008, when he officially became President. After Raúl Castro officially assumed the presidency, his government announced a series of economic changes that included lifting restrictions on the sale of some electronic consumer products and cell phones. A major reform effort has focused on the agriculture sector in an effort to boost food production. While additional economic changes are likely, there has been disappointment that further reforms have not been forthcoming. The economy was hard hit by storms in 2008 that resulted in $10 billion in damages, and the current global financial crisis is causing further strains. Few observers expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system, which is backed up by a strong security apparatus."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2009-09-04
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Cuba: U.S. Restrictions on Travel and Remittances [Updated July 30, 2008]
This Congressional Research Report addresses travel and remittance restrictions related to Cuba. "Restrictions on travel to Cuba have been a key and often contentious component in U.S. efforts to isolate the communist government of Fidel Castro for much of the past 40 years. Over time, there have been numerous changes to the restrictions, and for five years, from 1977 until 1982, there were no restrictions on travel to Cuba. Under the Bush Administration, enforcement of U.S. restrictions on Cuba travel has increased, and restrictions on travel and on private remittances to Cuba have been tightened. In March 2003, the Administration eliminated travel for people-to-people educational exchanges unrelated to academic coursework. In June 2004, the Administration further restricted family and educational travel, eliminated the category of fully-hosted travel, and restricted remittances so that they could only be sent to the remitter's immediate family. In 2005, the Administration further restricted religious travel to Cuba by changing licensing guidelines for such travel. In the second session of the 110th Congress, the House Appropriations Committee reported its version of the FY2009 Financial Services and General Government Appropriations bill on June 25, 2008, with provisions that would ease restrictions on family travel. It would allow for such travel once a year (instead of the current restriction of once every three years) to visit aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and first cousins in addition to immediate family."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2008-07-30
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Cuba: Issues for the 111th Congress [March 25, 2010]
"Cuba remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Fidel stepped down from power in July 2006 because of health reasons, and Raúl assumed provisional control of the government until February 2008 when he officially became President. His government has implemented limited economic policy changes, but there has been disappointment that further reforms have not been forthcoming. The economy was hard hit by storms in 2008 and the global financial crisis has caused further strains. Few observers expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy has consisted largely of isolating Cuba through economic sanctions. A second policy component has consisted of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations, U.S.-sponsored broadcasting to Cuba, and support for human rights activists. In light of Fidel Castro's departure as head of government, many observers have called for a re-examination of sanctions policy. In this new context, two broad approaches have been advanced: an approach that would maintain the dual-track policy of isolating the Cuban government while providing support to the Cuban people; and an approach aimed at changing attitudes in the Cuban government and society through increased engagement. The Obama Administration has lifted restrictions on family travel and remittances; eased restrictions on telecommunications links with Cuba; restarted semi-annual migration talks; and initiated talks on resuming direct mail services."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2010-03-25
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Cuba: Issues for the 114th Congress [February 27, 2015]
"Cuba remains a one-party communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession in 2006 from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. In 2013, Raúl began his second and final five-year term, which is scheduled to end in February 2018, when he would be 86 years old. Castro has implemented a number of market-oriented economic policy changes over the past several years, including an expansion of self-employment. A 2011 party congress laid out numerous economic goals that, if implemented, could significantly alter Cuba's state-dominated economic model. Few observers, however, expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system. While the government has released most long-term political prisoners, short-term detentions and harassment have increased significantly over the past several years, reflecting a change of tactics in repressing dissent." This document includes charts, tables and graphs to illustrate points and one map.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2015-02-27
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Panama-U.S. Relations [Updated March 26, 2001]
From the Document: "The December 20, 1989, U.S. military intervention in Panama, known as Operation Just Cause, heralded a new period in U.S.-Panamanian relations. In the aftermath of the intervention, U.S. policymakers immediately faced a new range of challenges including assistance for economic recovery, support for the development of a civilian police force, cooperation with the new government on counter-narcotics measures, and support for fragile democratic institutions. Panama has made abundant progress in all these areas, although the country still faces challenges. U.S. policymakers maintain an active concern about these issues because of continued U.S. interests in Panama, particularly the Panama Canal, which continues to be important to the United States for its commercial value. The Panamanian President's popularity fell significantly during the first year of her administration but improved in the latter part of 2000. A December 2000 public opinion poll showed an overall approval rating of 62%. However, many analysts believe that it will be difficult for President Moscoso to sustain her popularity because of sluggish economic growth and the administration's recent increases in electricity and telecommunications rates. The rate increases, which occurred in January 2001, resulted in violent street protests in the capital and led to many arrests. The political difficulties the president is facing may make it unlikely for her to gain legislative approval of proposed tax and social security reform measures she is proposing in March 2001. These measures are part of an agreement with the IMF that had been earlier scheduled for 2000. Without these reforms, the government will have difficulty meeting its fiscal and debt reduction targets or its public investment goals."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Villarreal, M. Angeles
2001-03-26
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Argentina: An Overview [Updated June 4, 2021]
From the Document: "Situated on the Atlantic coast of South America's Southern Cone, Argentina is an electoral democracy and has Latin America's third-largest economy. U.S.-Argentine relations have been strong in recent years. [...] Current President Alberto Fernández of the center-left Peronist-led 'Frente de Todos' (FdT, Front for All) coalition won the October 2019 presidential election and was inaugurated to a four-year term in December 2019. [...] Upon taking office, President Fernández faced an economy in recession, high poverty, and unsustainable public debt. He pledged to restructure Argentina's debt and opened talks with bondholders and other creditors. He also rolled out several measures, including a food program and price controls on basic goods, aimed at helping low-income Argentines cope with inflation and increased poverty. [...] Like other South American countries, Argentina has been hard hit by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Cases and deaths have surged in recent months. As of June 4, 2021, the country reported almost 80,000 deaths, with a mortality rate of 177 per 100,000 people, according to Johns Hopkins University. The procurement and rollout of vaccines has been slow compared with some other countries, and some analysts maintain that vaccine availability will not be widespread until 2022. [...] Amid the pandemic and its economic fallout, President Fernández's popularity has declined. Midterm legislative elections, delayed a month until November 2021due to the pandemic, will be a key test for Fernández and his FdT coalition."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2021-06-04
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Bahamas: An Overview [Updated June 2, 2021]
From the Document: "The Bahamas, a Caribbean nation of some 700 islands off the southeast coast of the United States, has been a stable parliamentary democracy since its independence from the United Kingdom (UK) in 1973. The country's bicameral legislature has a 39-seat House of Assembly directly elected for five-year terms and a 16-member appointed Senate. [...] Since 2019, the Bahamas has faced two major challenges: recovery and reconstruction in the aftermath of Hurricane Dorian that struck in September 2019, and response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Hurricane Dorian caused widespread damage to the northwestern Bahamian islands of Abaco and Grand Bahama, with 74 confirmed deaths and many more missing. An Inter-American Development Bank-led assessment estimated $3.4 billion in damages and losses."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2021-06-02
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Cuba: Issues for the 107th Congress [Updated January 6, 2003]
From the Summary: "Cuba remains a hard-line Communist state, with a poor record on human rights. Fidel Castro has ruled since he led the Cuban Revolution, ousting the corrupt government of Fulgencio Batista from power in 1959. With the cutoff of assistance from the former Soviet Union, Cuba experienced severe economic deterioration from 1989 to 1993. There has been some improvement since 1994 as Cuba has implemented limited reforms. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted largely of isolating the island nation through comprehensive economic sanctions. The Bush Administration has essentially continued this policy. The principal tool of policy remains comprehensive sanctions, which were made stronger with the Cuban Democracy Act (CDA) in 1992 and the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act in 1996, often referred to as the Helms/Burton legislation. […] Many of these will likely be introduced in the 108th Congress. In the second session of the 107th Congress, the House version of the FY2003 Treasury Department appropriations bill, H.R. 5120, included three Cuba provisions that would have eased restrictions on travel, remittances, and U.S. agricultural sales to Cuba; the Senate version of the bill, S. 2740, as reported out of committee, would have eased restrictions on travel to Cuba. Final action on the measure was not completed before the end of the 107th Congress; the 108th Congress will face early action on these and other appropriations measures with Cuba provisions. This report will not be updated. It reflects legislative action through the end of the 107th Congress."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2003-01-06
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Cuba: Issues for the 109th Congress [Updated January 23, 2006]
From the Summary: "Cuba under Fidel Castro remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights -- a record that has worsened since 2003. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted largely of isolating the island nation through comprehensive economic sanctions. Another component of U.S. policy consists of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations and U.S.-sponsored radio and television broadcasting to Cuba. The Bush Administration has further tightened restrictions on travel, on sending private humanitarian assistance to Cuba, and on the payment process for U.S. agricultural exports to Cuba. While there appears to be broad agreement on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba -- to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island -- there are several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted; others argue for lifting some U.S. sanctions that they believe are hurting the Cuban people. Still others call for a swift normalization of U.S.-Cuban relations. […] Other legislative initiative have provisions related to Cuba broadcasting (P.L. [Public Law] 109-108, S. 600, and H.R. 2601); anti-drug cooperation (H.R. 3057); and U.S. fugitives in Cuba (H.R. 2601, H.R. 332)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2006-01-23
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Cuba: Issues and Legislation in the 106th Congress [Updated January 11, 2001]
From the Summary: "Cuba remains a hard-line Communist state, with a poor record on human rights. Fidel Castro has ruled since he led the Cuban Revolution, ousting the corrupt government of Fulgencio Batista from power in 1959. With the cutoff of assistance from the former Soviet Union, Cuba experienced severe economic deterioration from 1989-1993, although there has been some improvement since 1994 as Cuba has implemented limited reforms. […] Others argue for an approach, sometimes referred to as constructive engagement, that would lift some U.S. sanctions that they believe are hurting the Cuban people, and move toward engaging Cuba in dialogue. Still others call for a swift normalization of U.S.-Cuban relations by lifting the U.S. embargo. Numerous measures were introduced in the 106th Congress that reflected the range of views on U.S. policy toward Cuba. Legislative initiatives proposed both easing and increasing sanctions against Cuba. In the end, legislation passed reflected both approaches: it allowed the export of food and medicine to Cuba, but prohibited any U.S. financing, both public and private, of such exports. Travel to Cuba for tourism was also prohibited. Another law facilitated enforcement of anti-terrorism judgments in U.S. courts to allow for the payment of a $187.6 million 1997 judgment against Cuba to be paid from Cuba's frozen assets in the United States to the families of three U.S. citizens killed when Cuba shot down two U.S. planes in 1996. President Clinton waived the provision, however, upon signing the rest of the bill into law."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2001-01-11
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Cuba: Issues for the 112th Congress [August 22, 2011]
"Cuba remains a one-party communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession in 2006 from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. The government of Raúl Castro has implemented limited economic policy changes, including an expansion of self-employment begun in October 2010. A party congress held in April 2011 laid out numerous economic goals that could increase the private sector. Few observers expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system, although it has reduced the number of political prisoners over the past several years, including the release of over 125 since 2010 after talks with the Catholic Church. […] Several initiatives would ease sanctions: H.R. 255 and H.R. 1887 (overall sanctions); H.R. 833 and H.R. 1888 (agricultural exports); and H.R. 380 and H.R. 1886 (travel). Two initiatives, S. 603 and H.R. 1166, would modify a trademark sanction, while several bills already noted would eliminate that sanction (H.R. 255, H.R. 1887, and H.R. 1888). Three bills would take different approaches toward Cuba's offshore oil development: H.R. 372, S. 405, and H.R. 2047. Two initiatives would discontinue Radio and TV Martí broadcasts to Cuba: S. 476 and H.R. 1317. One resolution would call for the return of U.S. fugitives in Cuba. For additional information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RL31139, 'Cuba: U.S. Restrictions on Travel and Remittances' and CRS Report R41522, 'Cuba's Offshore Oil Development: Background and U.S. Policy Considerations.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2011-08-22
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Cuba: Issues for the 110th Congress [Updated August 21, 2007]
From the Summary: "Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba under Fidel Castro has consisted largely of isolating the communist nation through economic sanctions, which the Bush Administration has tightened significantly. A second policy component has consisted of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations and U.S.-sponsored radio and television broadcasting to Cuba. As in past years, the main issue for U.S. policy toward Cuba in the 110th Congress is how to best support political and economic change in one of the world's remaining communist nations. Unlike past years, however, Congress is now examining policy toward Cuba in the context of Fidel Castro's temporary, and potentially permanent, departure from the political scene because of health conditions. […] Several initiatives would tighten sanctions: H.R. 525 (related to U.S. fugitives in Cuba), and H.R. 1679/S. 876 (related to Cuba's offshore oil development). Two initiatives, H.R. 1306 and S. 749, would amend a provision of law restricting the registration or enforcement of certain Cuban trademarks; H.R. 217, H.R. 624, H.R. 2819, and S. 1673 would repeal the trademark sanction. The House-passed version of the FY2008 foreign aid appropriations measure, H.R. 2764, would fully fund the Administration's request for $45.7 million for Cuba democracy programs, while the Senate Appropriations Committee report to the bill recommends $15 million. The House version would prohibit funding for counter-narcotics cooperation with Cuba, while the Senate version would provide $1 million. This report will be updated regularly."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2007-08-21
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Caribbean Region: Issues in U.S. Relations [Updated January 18, 2005]
"The U.S.-Caribbean relationship is characterized by extensive economic linkages, cooperation on counter-narcotics efforts and security, and a sizeable U.S. foreign assistance program. U.S. aid supports a variety of projects to strengthen democracy, promote economic growth and development, alleviate poverty, and combat the AIDS epidemic in the region. Despite close U.S. relations with most
Caribbean nations, there has been tension at times on such issues as the lack of widespread Caribbean support for U.S. military operations in Iraq and policy differences regarding Cuba. CARICOM nations also expressed concern about the circumstances regarding the departure of President Jean Bertrand Aristide from Haiti in February 2004. In the aftermath of several devastating storms in 2004 -- Hurricanes Charley, Frances and Ivan, and Tropical Storm Jeanne -- the United States is providing humanitarian assistance to the afflicted countries, including Haiti, Grenada, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. Congress approved $100 million in emergency supplemental funding for the region in the aftermath of the storms (P.L. 108-324)."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-01-18
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Venezuela: Political Conditions and U.S. Policy [Updated January 14, 2005]
From the Summary :"The United States traditionally has had close relations with Venezuela, but there has been friction in relations with the Chávez government. The Bush Administration expressed strong support for the work of the OAS in resolving the crisis, welcomed the May 2003 political accord, and supported its implementation. After the recall referendum, the Administration congratulated the Venezuelan people for their commitment to democracy and commended the work of the OAS and Carter Center. At the same time, U.S. officials stressed the importance of reconciliation on the part of the government and the opposition in order to resolve their political differences peacefully. A dilemma for U.S. policymakers has been how to press the Chávez government to adhere to democratic principles without taking sides in Venezuela's polarized political conflict. Since Venezuela is a major supplier of foreign oil to the United States, a key U.S. interest has been ensuring the continued flow of oil exports at a reasonable and stable price. Despite friction in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and despite past threats by President Chávez to stop selling oil to the United States, Venezuela has remained a steady supplier of oil to the United States."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-01-14
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Cuba: Issues for the 109th Congress [Updated July 7, 2005]
"Most attention in the 109th Congress has focused on Cuba's human rights situation and on Cuba sanctions. Legislative initiatives have included four human rights resolutions: House-passed H.Con.Res. 81 and H.Res. 193; Senate-passed S. 140; and H.Con.Res. 165, which also expresses support for the embargo. In addition, H.R. 2601 would authorize $5 million for U.S. government scholarship and exchange programs; a pending amendment (S.Amdt. 319) to S. 600 would authorize $15 million in democracy and human rights projects." This report covers U.S. policy toward Cuba as well as the political, economic and human rights conditions in the country. It also covers actions taken by the U.S. Legislature to change or preserve current U.S. law pertaining to Cuba.
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-07-07
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Cuba: Issues for the 109th Congress [Updated January 13, 2005]
From the Summary: "As in past years, the main issue for U.S. policy toward Cuba in the 109th Congress will be how to best support political and economic change in one of world's remaining communist nations. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted largely of isolating the island nation through comprehensive economic sanctions. Another component of U.S. policy consists of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations and U.S.-sponsored radio and television broadcasting to Cuba. The Bush Administration has further tightened restrictions on travel for family visits, other categories of travel, and on sending private humanitarian assistance to Cuba. While there appears to be broad agreement on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba -- to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island -- there are several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted; others argue for lifting some U.S. sanctions that they believe are hurting the Cuban people. Still others call for a swift normalization of U.S.-Cuban relations."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-01-13
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Caribbean Region: Issues in U.S. Relations [Updated May 25, 2005]
"With some 34 million people and 16 independent nations sharing an African ethnic heritage, the Caribbean is a diverse region that includes some of the hemisphere's richest and poorest nations. The region consists of 13 island nations, from the Bahamas in the north to Trinidad and Tobago in the south; Belize, which is geographically located in Central America; and the two nations of Guyana and Suriname, located on the north central coast of South America. With the exception of Cuba and Haiti, Caribbean governments have generally respected the human rights of their citizens. Regular elections are the norm, and for the most part have been free and fair. Nevertheless, while many Caribbean nations have long democratic traditions, they are not immune to threats to their political stability, including terrorism. Many nations in the region experienced economic decline in 2001-2002 due to downturns in the tourism and agriculture sectors. The extensive damage resulting from several storms in 2004 caused an economic setback for several Caribbean nations. U.S. interests in the Caribbean are diverse, and include economic, political, and security concerns."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-05-25
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Cuba: Issues for the 109th Congress [Updated March 22, 2005]
From the Summary: "As in past years, the main issue for U.S. policy toward Cuba in the 109th Congress will be how to best support political and economic change in one of world's remaining communist nations. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted largely of isolating the island nation through comprehensive economic sanctions. Another component of U.S. policy consists of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations and U.S.-sponsored radio and television broadcasting to Cuba. The Bush Administration has further tightened restrictions on travel for family visits, other categories of travel, and on sending private humanitarian assistance to Cuba. While there appears to be broad agreement on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba -- to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island -- there are several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted; others argue for lifting some U.S. sanctions that they believe are hurting the Cuban people. Still others call for a swift normalization of U.S.-Cuban relations."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-03-22
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Venezuela: Political Conditions and U.S. Policy [Updated April 1, 2005]
From the Summary: "The United States traditionally has had close relations with Venezuela, but there has been friction in relations with the Chávez government. The Bush Administration expressed strong support for the work of the OAS in resolving the crisis, welcomed the May 2003 political accord, and supported its implementation. After the recall referendum, the Administration congratulated the Venezuelan people for their commitment to democracy and commended the work of the OAS and Carter Center. At the same time, U.S. officials stressed the importance of reconciliation on the part of the government and the opposition in order to resolve their political differences peacefully. A dilemma for U.S. policymakers has been how to press the Chávez government to adhere to democratic principles without taking sides in Venezuela's polarized political conflict. Since Venezuela is a major supplier of foreign oil to the United States, a key U.S. interest has been ensuring the continued flow of oil exports at a reasonable and stable price. Despite friction in U.S.-Venezuelan relations and despite past threats by President Chávez to stop selling oil to the United States, Venezuela has remained a steady supplier of oil to the United States."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2005-04-01
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U.S. Foreign Assistance to Latin America and the Caribbean [Updated March 30, 2005]
From the Summary: "U.S. foreign assistance programs to developing nations began in earnest after the conclusion of World War II. Trends in U.S. assistance to the region generally reflect the trends and rationales for U.S. foreign aid programs globally. Aid to the region increased during the 1960s with the Alliance for Progress and during the 1980s with aid to Central America. Since 2000, aid levels have again increased, especially in the Andean region as the focus has shifted from Cold War issues to counternarcotics and security assistance. Current aid levels to Latin America and the Caribbean comprise 11.4% of the worldwide aid budget, representing an increase over levels ten years ago of 8.2%. Aid levels to the region could increase further as new presidential initiatives -- the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and the Millennium Challenge Account -- are implemented. [...] The annual Foreign Operations Appropriation bills have been the vehicles by which Congress provides funding for foreign assistance programs. Congress provided $17.5 billion out of the President's $18.8 billion international affairs request for FY2004. The President requested $21.3 billion for FY2005, with increases mainly due to the Millennium Challenge Account and the Global Aids Initiative. The FY2005 Consolidated Appropriations Act (H.R. 4818/P.L. 108-447) provided $19.64 billion for the foreign assistance budget worldwide. Congress has expressed concerns about a number of related issues, including the general effectiveness of foreign aid programs, and how best to address the HIV/AIDS problem and poverty issues. Congress has also debated the U.S. role in fighting narcotics trafficking and illegally armed groups in Colombia, as well as stabilizing the situation in Haiti."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Veillette, Connie; Seelke, Clare Ribando
2005-03-30
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Cuba: Issues for the 111th Congress [July 16, 2010]
"Cuba remains a hard-line communist state with a poor record on human rights. The country's political succession from the long-ruling Fidel Castro to his brother Raúl was characterized by a remarkable degree of stability. Fidel stepped down from power in July 2006 because of health reasons, and Raúl assumed provisional control of the government until February 2008 when he officially became president. His government has implemented limited economic policy changes, but there has been disappointment that further reforms have not been forthcoming. The economy was hard hit by storms in 2008, and the global financial crisis caused further strains. Few observers expect the government to ease its tight control over the political system, although it did agree in July 2010 to release 52 political prisoners after talks with the Cuban Catholic Church. Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy has consisted largely of isolating Cuba through economic sanctions. A second policy component has consisted of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations, U.S.-sponsored broadcasting to Cuba, and support for human rights activists. In light of Fidel Castro's departure as head of government, many observers have called for a re-examination of sanctions policy. In this new context, two broad approaches have been advanced: an approach that would maintain the dual-track policy of isolating the Cuban government while providing support to the Cuban people; and an approach aimed at changing attitudes in the Cuban government and society through increased engagement."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2010-07-16
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Cuba: Issues for the 110th Congress [Updated June 26, 2008]
From the Summary: "Since the early 1960s, U.S. policy toward Cuba has consisted largely of isolating the communist nation through economic sanctions, which the Bush Administration has tightened significantly. A second policy component has consisted of support measures for the Cuban people, including private humanitarian donations and U.S.-sponsored radio and television broadcasting to Cuba. As in past years, the main issue for U.S. policy toward Cuba in the 110th Congress has been how to best support political and economic change in one of the world's remaining communist nations. Unlike past years, however, Congress is examining policy toward Cuba in the context of Fidel Castro's departure from heading the government because of poor health. Raúl Castro, who had served as provision head of government since July 2006, was selected on February 24, 2008 by Cuba's legislature to continue in that role officially. […] Two initiatives, H.R. 1306 and S. 749, would amend a provision of law restricting the registration or enforcement of certain Cuban trademarks; five initiatives -- H.R. 217, H.R. 624, H.R. 2819, S. 1673, and S. 1806 -- would repeal the trademark sanction. H.R. 5627 and S. 2777 would award the congressional gold medal to Cuban political prisoner Dr. Oscar Elias Biscet. H.Res. 935 would commemorate the anniversary of the 1996 shootdown of two U.S. civilian planes by Cuba. For more information, see CRS [Congressional Research Service] Report RS22742, 'Cuba's Political Succession: From Fidel to Raúl Castro' and CRS Report RL31139, 'Cuba: U.S. Restrictions on Travel and Remittances.'"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.
2008-06-26
