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Guatemala: Political and Socioeconomic Conditions and U.S. Relations [Updated March 20, 2019]
From the Document: "Traditionally, the United States and Guatemala have had close relations, with friction at times over human rights and civil/military issues. Guatemala and the United States have significant trade and are part of the U.S.- Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). Top priorities for U.S. bilateral assistance to Guatemala include improving security, governance, and justice for citizens; improving economic growth and food security; providing access to health services; promoting better educational outcomes; and providing opportunities for out-of-school youth to reduce their desire to migrate. The U.S. Strategy for Guatemala: Political and Socioeconomic Conditions and U.S. Relations Congressional Research Service Engagement in Central America is meant to spur development and reduce illegal emigration to the United States. The Trump Administration has proposed substantially cutting funds for Guatemala, and eliminating traditional food aid and the Inter-American Foundation in its FY2018-FY2020 budget requests. Congress rejected much of those cuts in the reports to and language in the Consolidated Appropriations Acts of 2018 (P.L. 115-141), and 2019 (P.L. 116-6). Tensions between Guatemala and much of the international community have arisen over Guatemalan efforts to oust CICIG [International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala] and to grant amnesty for human rights violations. The Trump Administration suspended military aid to Guatemala in March 2019 over its misuse of armored vehicles provided by the Department of Defense to combat drug trafficking."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2019-03-20
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Guatemala: Political, Security, and Socio-Economic Conditions and U.S. Relations [August 7, 2014]
"Since the 1980s, Guatemala, the most populous country in Central America with a population of 15.5 million, has continued its transition from centuries of mostly autocratic rule toward representative government. A democratic constitution was adopted in 1985, and a democratically elected government was inaugurated in 1986. A violent 36-year civil war ended in 1996. This report provides an overview of Guatemala's current political and economic conditions, relations with the United States, and several issues likely to figure in future decisions by Congress and the Administration regarding Guatemala. With respect to continued cooperation and foreign assistance, these issues include security and governance; protection of human rights and human rights conditions on some U.S. military aid to Guatemala; support for the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala; combating narcotics trafficking and organized crime; trade relations; intercountry adoption; and unaccompanied children at the U.S. border."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2014-08-07
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Central America and the Dominican Republic in the Context of the Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA) with the United States [Updated August 4, 2005]
"On October 1, 2002, the Bush Administration notified Congress of the intention to enter into negotiations leading to a free trade agreement with five Central American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua). Negotiations for a U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) were launched in January 2003 and were completed on December 17, 2003, although Costa Rica withdrew from the negotiations at the last minute. Negotiations with Costa Rica continued in early January 2004, and were completed on January 25, 2004. On February 20, 2004, President Bush notified Congress of his intention to sign the CAFTA pact, and it was signed on May 28, 2004. In August 2003, the Administration notified Congress of plans to negotiate a free trade agreement with the Dominican Republic and to incorporate it into the free trade agreement with Central American countries. Negotiations with the Dominican Republic began in January 2004, and were completed on March 15, 2004. The new pact, to be known as the United States-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA), was signed by all seven countries on August 5, 2004."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-; Seelke, Clare Ribando; Sek, Lenore . . .
2005-08-04
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Latin America and the Caribbean: Issues for the 108th Congress [Updated July 2, 2003]
"This report, which will be updated periodically, examines issues in U.S. policy toward Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing especially on the role of Congress and congressional concerns. For more details and discussion, see the listed CRS [Congressional Research Service] products after each section. The Latin American and Caribbean region has made enormous strides over the past two decades in political development, with all countries but Cuba led by democratically-elected heads of state. But several nations face considerable challenges that threaten political stability, including economic decline and rising poverty, violent guerrilla conflicts, drug trafficking, and increasing crime. Bush Administration officials maintain that U.S. policy toward Latin America has three overarching goals: strengthening security; promoting democracy and good governance; and stimulating economic development. Some observers argue that the Administration has not been paying enough attention to the region and to instability in several countries. They maintain that the United States, faced with other pressing foreign policy problems like the war in Iraq and the global anti-terrorist campaign, has fallen back to a policy of benign neglect of the region. In contrast, others maintain that the United States has an active policy toward Latin America and point to the considerable assistance and support provided to Colombia and its neighbors as they combat drug trafficking and terrorist groups. They also point to the momentum toward free trade in the region through negotiation of free trade agreements, and to increased bilateral and regional cooperation on security issues."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Veillette, Connie; Taft-Morales, Maureen; Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937- . . .
2003-07-02
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Haiti Under President Martelly: Current Conditions and Congressional Concerns [February 12, 2014]
"Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986, Haiti has struggled to overcome its centuries-long legacy of authoritarianism, extreme poverty, and underdevelopment. Economic and social stability improved considerably, and many analysts believed Haiti was turning a corner toward sustainable development when it was set back by a massive earthquake in January 2010 that devastated much of the capital of Port-au-Prince. Although it is recovering, poverty remains massive and deep, and economic disparity is wide: Haiti remains the poorest country in the western hemisphere. Haiti is a key foreign assistance priority for the Obama Administration in Latin American and the Caribbean. Haiti's developmental needs and priorities are many. The Haitian government and the international donor community are implementing a 10-year recovery plan focusing on territorial, economic, social, and institutional rebuilding. An outbreak of cholera in late 2010 has swept across most of the country and further complicated assistance efforts. Progress has been made in developing democratic institutions, although they remain weak. In 2011, following yet another controversial election, Michel Martelly, a popular musician without any previous political experience, became President. Martelly's difficulty in forming a government and ongoing political gridlock, especially the contentious delays in beginning a long overdue elections process, are hampering reconstruction efforts, frustrating international donors, and contributing to public protests against his administration. Some steps toward elections have been made-naming an electoral council and passing political parties and electoral laws-but still no date has been set."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2014-02-12
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Peru in Brief: Political and Economic Conditions and Relations with the United States [October 18, 2012]
"This report provides an overview of Peru's government and economy and a discussion of issues in relations between the United States and Peru. Peru and the United States have a strong and cooperative relationship. Several issues in U.S.-Peru relations are likely to be considered in decisions by Congress and the Administration on future aid to and cooperation with Peru. The United States supports the strengthening of Peru's democratic institutions, its respect for human rights, environmental protection, and counternarcotics efforts. A dominant theme in bilateral relations is the effort to stem the flow of illegal drugs, mostly cocaine, between the two countries. In the economic realm, the United States supports bilateral trade relations and Peru's further integration into the world economy. The United States is Peru's top trading partner. The U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA) went into effect February 1, 2009. The Obama Administration requested $74 million in foreign assistance for Peru for FY2013 to advance these objectives"
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2012-10-18
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Cuba: Issues for Congress [Updated November 20, 2001]
"There appears to be broad agreement among those concerned with Cuba on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba--to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island. But there have been several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate a policy of keeping maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted, while continuing current U.S. efforts to support the Cuban people. 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. Policy debate in the past several years has focused on whether to maintain U.S. restrictions on food and medical exports as well as on travel to Cuba. Legislative initiatives introduced in the 107th Congress reflect these divergent views on the direction of U.S. policy toward Cuba and also cover a range of issues including human rights, food and medical exports, travel restrictions, drug interdiction cooperation, and broadcasting to Cuba. On July 25, 2001, in action on the Treasury Department Appropriations for FY2002 (H.R. 2590), the House approved an amendment that would prohibit the Treasury Department from using funds to enforce restrictions on travel to Cuba. Ultimately, the Cuba travel provision was not included in the conference report to the bill."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2001-11-20
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Latin America and the Caribbean: Legislative Issues in 2001 [Updated October 10, 2001]
"This report provides an overview of the major legislative issues facing Congress in 2001 relating to the Latin American and Caribbean region, and provides reference and linkages to other reports covering the issues in more detail. The report is organized by the regions and subregions of the Western Hemisphere."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Sullivan, Mark P. . . .
2001-10-01
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Haiti's National Elections: Issues and Concerns [March 14, 2011]
"In proximity to the United States, and with such a chronically unstable political environment and fragile economy, Haiti has been a constant policy issue for the United States. Congress views the stability of the nation with great concern and commitment to improving conditions there. Both Congress and the international community have invested significant resources in the political, economic, and social development of Haiti, and will be closely monitoring the conduct of the elections as a prelude to the next steps in Haiti's development. Haiti is currently approaching the end of its latest election cycle. Like many of the previous elections, the current process has been riddled with political tensions, allegations of irregularities, and violence. The first round of voting for president and the legislature was held on Sunday, November 28, 2010. […] The United States is providing $14 million in election support through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This report provides an overview of the controversies surrounding the first round of voting in late 2010, and concerns related to the second and final round of the elections. In addition to ongoing issues regarding the legitimacy of the upcoming March 20 elections, other questions have raised concerns within the international community and Congress. These include the destabilizing presence of former dictator Jean-Claude 'Baby Doc' Duvalier, the possible return of former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, and the newly elected government's ability to handle the complex post-earthquake reconstruction process and its relationship with the donor community."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2011-03-14
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Haiti's National Elections: Issues and Concerns [May 11, 2011]
"In proximity to the United States, and with such a chronically unstable political environment and fragile economy, Haiti has been a constant policy issue for the United States. […] For the past 25 years, Haiti has been making the transition from a legacy of authoritarian rule to a democratic government. Elections are a part of that process. In the short term, elections have usually been a source of increased political tensions and instability in Haiti. In the long term, elected governments in Haiti have contributed to the gradual strengthening of government capacity and transparency. Haiti is currently approaching the end of its latest election cycle. Like many of the previous elections, the current process has been riddled with political tensions, allegations of irregularities, and violence. The first round of voting for president and the legislature was held on November 28, 2010. That vote was marred by opposition charges of fraud, reports of irregularities, and low voter turnout. […] The United States is providing $14 million in election support through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The Obama Administration considers Haiti its top priority in the Latin American and Caribbean region. This report provides an overview of the controversies surrounding the first round of voting in late 2010, and concerns related to the second and final round of the elections. In addition to ongoing issues regarding the legitimacy of the March 20 elections, other questions have raised concerns within the international community and Congress. These include the destabilizing presence of former dictator Jean-Claude "Baby Doc" Duvalier, and former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, and the newly elected government's ability to handle the complex post-earthquake reconstruction process and its relationship with the donor community."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2011-05-11
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Guatemala: Political and Socioeconomic Conditions and U.S. Relations [March 27, 2018]
"Guatemala, the most populous Central American country, with a population of 16.3 million, has been consolidating its transition to democracy since the 1980s. Guatemala has a long history of internal conflict, including a 36-year civil war (1960-1996) during which the Guatemalan military held power and over 200,000 people were killed or disappeared. A democratic constitution was adopted in 1985, and a democratically elected government was inaugurated in 1986. President Jimmy Morales, a political newcomer, took office in January 2016, having campaigned on an anti-corruption platform. The previous president and vice president had resigned and been arrested after being implicated in a large-scale corruption scandal. Morales is being investigated for corruption and has survived two efforts to remove his immunity from prosecution."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2018-03-27
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Guatemala: Corruption, Uncertainty Mar June 2019 Elections [June 11, 2019]
From the Document: "Guatemala is scheduled to hold national elections for president, the entire 158-seat Congress, 340 mayors, and other local posts on June 16, 2019. The list of candidates on the ballot was finalized one week before voting. Candidates were still being ruled ineligible--some due to corruption allegations--and appealing rulings in early June. Elements of the government allowed some candidates to run and impeded the registrations of others. Such uncertainty will likely lead many to question the outcome."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2019-06-11
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Haiti's National Elections: Issues and Concerns [March 23, 2011]
"In proximity to the United States, and with such a chronically unstable political environment and fragile economy, Haiti has been a constant policy issue for the United States. Congress views the stability of the nation with great concern and commitment to improving conditions there. Both Congress and the international community have invested significant resources in the political, economic, and social development of Haiti, and will be closely monitoring the election process as a prelude to the next steps in Haiti's development. For the past 25 years, Haiti has been making the transition from a legacy of authoritarian rule to a democratic government. Elections are a part of that process. In the short term, elections have usually been a source of increased political tensions and instability in Haiti. In the long term, elected governments in Haiti have contributed to the gradual strengthening of government capacity and transparency. [...] The main priorities for U.S. policy regarding Haiti are to strengthen fragile democratic processes, continue to improve security, and promote economic development. Other concerns include the cost and effectiveness of U.S. aid; protecting human rights; combating narcotics, arms, and human trafficking; addressing Haitian migration; and alleviating poverty. State Department and USAID officials say that the Obama Administration regards Haiti as its number one priority in the Latin America and Caribbean region."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2011-03-23
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Haiti Under President Martelly: Current Conditions and Congressional Concerns [December 23, 2015]
"Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986, Haiti has struggled to overcome its centuries-long legacy of authoritarianism, extreme poverty, and underdevelopment. Economic and social stability improved considerably, and many analysts believed Haiti was turning a corner toward sustainable development when it was set back by a massive earthquake in January 2010 that devastated much of the capital of Port-au-Prince. Although it is recovering, poverty remains massive and deep, and economic disparity is wide: Haiti remains the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Throughout President Michel Martelly's five-year term, Haiti has found itself in a prolonged political crisis due to the government's failure to hold a series of elections that were long overdue. The government failed to hold elections by the end of 2012, leaving the Senate without one-third of its members. Thousands of Haitians took to the streets to protest the lack of elections. When the terms for another third of the Senate as well as the entire 99-seat Chamber of Deputies expired on January 12, the legislature was immediately dissolved, and Martelly began ruling by decree. A new Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) organized legislative elections in August, which were marred by violence, and runoff legislative, presidential, and local elections in October 2015. Some presidential candidates have led protests alleging fraud but have failed to file legal complaints. Runoff presidential elections scheduled for December 27 have been postponed while an independent commission makes recommendations. No new date has been set."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2015-12-23
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Guatemala: One President Resigns; Another Elected, to be Inaugurated January 14 [January 11, 2016]
"In what many observers see as a remarkable step forward for its democratic development, Guatemala's judicial system
investigated government corruption, leading to the resignation and arrest of its president and vice-president. Guatemala
then proceeded lawfully and peacefully to form an interim government and hold elections, and is about to transfer
power to a newly elected president."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2016-01-11
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Peru: Politics, Economy, and Elections in Brief [April 6, 2016]
"This report provides an overview of Peru's political, economic, and security conditions and of U.S.-Peruvian relations. As President Ollanta Humala is nearing the end of his five-year term, Peru is preparing to hold national elections for the presidency and the 130-seat unicameral legislature on April 10, 2016. In several recent elections, Peruvians have elected a presidential candidate who surged from far behind in the polls in the final weeks of the campaign--as was the case with President Humala in 2011. The disqualification of two popular candidates, Julio Guzmán and Cesar Acuña, in March 2016 changed the landscape of the race and raised questions regarding the electoral institutions' neutrality and competency. […] Peru and the United States have a strong and cooperative relationship. Several issues in U.S.-Peruvian relations are likely to be considered in decisions by Congress and the Administration on future aid to and cooperation with Peru. The United States supports the strengthening of Peru's democratic institutions, counternarcotics efforts, security and respect for human rights, and environmental protection. A dominant theme in bilateral relations is the effort to stem the flow of illegal drugs, mostly cocaine, between the two countries. In the economic realm, the United States supports bilateral trade relations and Peru's further integration into the world economy. A bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) between the United States and Peru entered into force on February 1, 2009. In addition, both countries are parties to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement, a proposed FTA with ten other countries."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2016-04-06
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Cuba: Issues for the 107th Congress [Updated June 12, 2002]
"There appears to be broad agreement among those concerned with Cuba on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba--to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island. But there have been several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate a policy of keeping maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted, while continuing current U.S. efforts to support the Cuban people. 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. Policy debate in the past several years has focused on whether to maintain U.S. restrictions on food and medical exports as well as on travel to Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-06-12
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Cuba: Issues for the 107th Congress [Updated May 24, 2002]
"There appears to be broad agreement among those concerned with Cuba on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba--to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island. But there have been several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate a policy of keeping maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted, while continuing current U.S. efforts to support the Cuban people. 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. Policy debate in the past several years has focused on whether to maintain U.S. restrictions on food and medical exports as well as on travel to Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-05-24
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Cuba: Issues for the 107th Congress [Updated March 22, 2002]
"There appears to be broad agreement among those concerned with Cuba on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba--to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island. But there have been several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate a policy of keeping maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted, while continuing current U.S. efforts to support the Cuban people. 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. Policy debate in the past several years has focused on whether to maintain U.S. restrictions on food and medical exports as well as on travel to Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-03-22
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Cuba: Issues for Congress [Updated February 1, 2002]
"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. There has been some improvement since 1994 as Cuba has implemented limited reforms. […] Legislative initiatives introduced in the 107th Congress reflect these divergent views on the direction of U.S. policy toward Cuba and also cover a range of issues including human rights, food and medical exports, travel restrictions, drug interdiction cooperation, and broadcasting to Cuba. On July 25, 2001, in action on the Treasury Department Appropriations for FY2002 (H.R. 2590), the House approved an amendment that would prohibit the Treasury Department from using funds to enforce restrictions on travel to Cuba. Ultimately, the Cuba travel provision was not included in the conference report to the bill. The Senate version of the 'Farm Bill,' S. 1731 (Harkin), would strike language from U.S. law that prohibits private financing of agricultural sales to Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-02-01
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Cuba: Issues for Congress [Updated November 29, 2002]
"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. There has been some improvement since 1994 as Cuba has implemented limited reforms. […] Legislative initiatives introduced in the 107th Congress reflect these divergent views on the direction of U.S. policy toward Cuba and also cover a range of issues including human rights, food and medical exports, travel restrictions, drug interdiction cooperation, and broadcasting to Cuba. In the second session, the Senate version of the 'Farm Bill,' H.R. 2646, included a provision that would strike language from U.S. law that prohibits private financing of agricultural sales to Cuba; the House version had no such provision, and ultimately the provision was not included in the conference report. The House version of the FY2003 Treasury Department appropriations bill, H.R. 5120, included three Cuba provisions that would prohibit funds from being used to enforce regulations on travel, remittances, and U.S. agricultural sales to Cuba; the Senate version of the bill, S. 2740, as reported out of committee, would prohibit funds from being used to enforce Cuba travel regulations. Final action on FY2003 Treasury Department appropriations was not completed before the end of the 107th Congress. This report will be updated regularly to track legislative initiatives and developments in U.S. relations with Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-11-29
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Cuba: Issues for the 107th Congress [Updated August 30, 2002]
"There appears to be broad agreement among those concerned with Cuba on the overall objective of U.S. policy toward Cuba--to help bring democracy and respect for human rights to the island. But there have been several schools of thought on how to achieve that objective. Some advocate a policy of keeping maximum pressure on the Cuban government until reforms are enacted, while continuing current U.S. efforts to support the Cuban people. 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. Policy debate in the past several years has focused on whether to maintain U.S. restrictions on food and medical exports as well as on travel to Cuba."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Taft-Morales, Maureen
2002-08-30
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Haiti Under President Martelly: Current Conditions and Congressional Concerns [April 8, 2013]
"Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic. Since the fall of the Duvalier dictatorship in 1986, Haiti has struggled to overcome its centuries-long legacy of authoritarianism, extreme poverty, and underdevelopment. During that time, economic and social stability improved considerably, and many analysts believed Haiti was turning a corner toward sustainable development. Unfortunately, Haiti's development was set back by a massive earthquake in January 2010 that devastated much of the capital of Port-au-Prince and other parts of the country. Poverty remains massive and deep, and economic disparity is wide: Haiti remains the poorest country in the western hemisphere. […] The main priorities for U.S. policy regarding Haiti are to strengthen fragile democratic processes, continue to improve security, and promote economic development. Other concerns include the cost and effectiveness of U.S. aid; protecting human rights; combating narcotics, arms, and human trafficking; and alleviating poverty. The Obama Administration granted Temporary Protected Status to Haitians living in the United States at the time of the earthquake. Congressional concerns include the pace and effectiveness of reconstruction, respect for human rights, security issues, counternarcotics efforts and trade issues. Congress is also concerned that overdue Senate and local elections be scheduled quickly and be free, fair, and peaceful."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2013-04-08
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Guatemala: Political, Security, and Socio-Economic Conditions and U.S. Relations [May 16, 2013]
"Since the 1980s, Guatemala, the most populous country in Central America with a population just over 14 million, has continued its transition from a centuries-long tradition of mostly autocratic rule toward representative government. A democratic constitution was adopted in 1985, and a democratically elected government was inaugurated in 1986. A 36-year civil war that ravaged Guatemala ended in 1996. This report provides an overview of Guatemala's current political and economic conditions, relations with the United States, and several issues likely to figure in future decisions by Congress and the Administration regarding Guatemala. With respect to continued cooperation and foreign assistance, these issues include security and governance; protection of human rights and human rights conditions on some U.S. military aid to Guatemala; support for the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala; combating narcotics trafficking and organized crime; trade relations; and intercountry adoption."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2013-05-16
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Haiti: Developments and U.S. Policy Since 1991 and Current Congressional Concerns [Updated December 1, 2004]
"On September 18, 1994, when it learned that a U.S. military intervention had been launched, the military regime agreed to Aristide's return, the immediate, unopposed entry of U.S. troops, and the resignation of the military leadership. President Aristide returned to Haiti on October 15, 1994, under the protection of some 20,000 U.S. troops. Following his return, Aristide, with U.S. assistance, disbanded the army and began to train a professional, civilian Haitian National Police force. Elections held under Aristide and his successor, Rene Preval (1996-2000), including the one in which Aristide was reelected in 2000, were marred by alleged irregularities, low voter turnout, and opposition boycotts. Efforts to resolve the electoral dispute frustrated the international community for years. The OAS tried to mediate negotiations between the Aristide government and the civic opposition, and set up a mission in Haiti. Tension and violence in Haiti continued throughout Aristide's second term, culminating in his departure from office on February 29, 2004, after the opposition had repeatedly refused to negotiate a political solution and armed groups had taken control of over half the country."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2004-12-01
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Central America and the Dominican Republic in the Context of the Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA) with the United States [Updated October 24, 2005]
"On October 1, 2002, the Bush Administration notified Congress of the intention to enter into negotiations leading to a free trade agreement with five Central American countries (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua). Negotiations for a U.S.-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) were launched in January 2003 and were completed on December 17, 2003, although Costa Rica withdrew from the negotiations at the last minute. Negotiations with Costa Rica continued in early January 2004, and were completed on January 25, 2004. On February 20, 2004, President Bush notified Congress of his intention to sign the CAFTA pact, and it was signed on May 28, 2004. In August 2003, the Administration notified Congress of plans to negotiate a free trade agreement with the Dominican Republic and to incorporate it into the free trade agreement with Central American countries. Negotiations with the Dominican Republic began in January 2004, and were completed on March 15, 2004. The new pact, to be known as the United States-Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (DR-CAFTA), was signed by all seven countries on August 5, 2004."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Storrs, K. Larry (Keith Larry), 1937-; Seelke, Clare Ribando; Sek, Lenore . . .
2005-10-24
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Latin America and the Caribbean: Issues for the 110th Congress [January 23, 2007]
"Over the past two decades, the Latin America and Caribbean region has made enormous strides in terms of political and economic development. Twelve countries held successful elections for head of government in 2006, including a close election in Mexico, and in 2007, five other countries have elections scheduled. Although the region overall experienced an economic setback in 2002-2003, it has rebounded since 2004, and most recently experienced an average growth rate over 5% in 2006. Despite this progress, several nations face considerable challenges that threaten political stability or pose challenges for U.S. interests and policy in the region. These include persistent poverty, violent guerrilla conflicts, autocratic leaders, drug trafficking, increasing crime, and the rise of a new form of populism in several countries. In the 110th Congress, legislative and oversight attention to Latin America and the Caribbean will likely focus on continued counternarcotics efforts, especially in the Andean region; potential immigration reform and increased border security, which have been key issues in relations with Mexico; efforts to deal with potential threats to democracy and the rise of populism in such nations as Venezuela, Bolivia, and Ecuador; debate over the best means to foster political change in Communist Cuba; and trade issues, including the potential consideration of implementing legislation for free trade agreements (FTAs). Curbing the flow of illicit drugs from Mexico and South America into the United States has been a key component of U.S. relations with Latin America for almost two decades."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Cook, Colleen W.; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.) . . .
2007-01-23
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Peru in Brief: Political and Economic Conditions and Relations with the United States [June 7, 2013]
"This report provides an overview of Peru's government and economy and a discussion of issues in relations between the United States and Peru. Peru and the United States have a strong and cooperative relationship. Several issues in U.S.-Peru relations are likely to be considered in decisions by Congress and the Administration on future aid to and cooperation with Peru. The United States supports the strengthening of Peru's democratic institutions, its respect for human rights, environmental protection, and counternarcotics efforts. A dominant theme in bilateral relations is the effort to stem the flow of illegal drugs, mostly cocaine, between the two countries. In the economic realm, the United States supports bilateral trade relations and Peru's further integration into the world economy. The United States is Peru's top trading partner. The U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement (PTPA) went into effect February 1, 2009. The Obama Administration requested $74 million in foreign assistance for Peru for FY2013 to advance these objectives."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2013-06-07
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Latin America and the Caribbean: Issues for the 108th Congress [Updated May 5, 2003]
"This report, which will be updated periodically, examines issues in U.S. policy toward Latin America and the Caribbean, focusing especially on the role of Congress and congressional concerns. For more details and discussion, see the listed CRS [Congressional Research Service] products after each section. The Latin American and Caribbean region has made enormous strides over the past two decades in political development, with all countries but Cuba led by democratically-elected heads of state. But several nations face considerable challenges that threaten political stability, including economic decline and rising poverty, violent guerrilla conflicts, drug trafficking, and increasing crime. Bush Administration officials maintain that U.S. policy toward Latin America has three overarching goals: strengthening security; promoting democracy and good governance; and stimulating economic development. Some observers argue that the Administration has not been paying enough attention to the region and to instability in such countries as Argentina and Venezuela. They maintain that the United States, faced with other pressing foreign policy problems like the war in Iraq and the global anti-terrorist campaign, has fallen back to a policy of benign neglect of the region. In contrast, others maintain that the United States has an active policy toward Latin America and point to the considerable assistance and support provided to Colombia and its neighbors as they combat drug trafficking and terrorist groups. They also point to the momentum toward free trade in the region through negotiation of free trade agreements, and to increased bilateral and regional cooperation on security issues."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Sullivan, Mark P.; Hornbeck, J. F. (John F.); Serafino, Nina M. . . .
2003-05-05
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Haiti's Political and Economic Conditions: In Brief [December 1, 2017]
"Haiti returned to constitutional order in February 2017, with the inauguration of President Jovenel Moïse, after almost a year without an elected president because of political gridlock and delayed elections. Hopes for a more functional and transparent government are tempered by the political newcomer's lack of experience and ongoing investigations into Moïse's possible involvement in money laundering and irregular loan arrangements, which the president denies. [...] Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Its poverty is massive and deep, exacerbated by chronic political instability and frequent natural disasters. Almost 60% of the country's 10 million people live in poverty, and almost a quarter of them live in extreme poverty. Haiti is still recovering from the devastating earthquake in 2010, as well as Hurricane Matthew, which hit the island in 2016. [...] Haiti was a key foreign assistance priority for the Obama Administration in Latin America and the Caribbean. According to the State Department, the main priorities for current U.S. policy regarding Haiti are to strengthen fragile democratic institutions and foster sustainable development."
Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service
Taft-Morales, Maureen
2017-12-01
