Americas Program: Focus on Central America

Central America has a deep relationship with the U.S. that has been based on trade, immigration, and political development. Although economic ties between the U.S. and Central America have long been strong, they are now set to increase with the implementation of the CAFTA-DR free trade agreement. At the same time, the countries of Central America currently face serious challenges including how to promote greater economic development, curb gangs and other forms of transnational crime, and ensure a reliable and affordable energy supply. Recent elections in Nicaragua and elsewhere point to the sometimes fragile state of democratic institutions in the region. The CSIS Americas Program analyzes in depth these issues and more as it seeks to promote greater understanding of the development and future of Central America.

For a political and economic overview of each Caribbean nation, please follow the links below.