S2E14: How Violence, Weak Institutions, and Climate Change Fuel Latin America's Migration Crisis

Brian J Matos

Fulton Armstrong and Brian explore the origins of the migration challenges in Latin America, focusing on the push and pull factors that drive people to leave their home countries. They discuss the role of violence, weak institutions, and climate change as major drivers of migration. The conversation also delves into the issue of gangs and drug cartels in the region, highlighting their impact on violence and instability. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the challenges faced by Latin American countries in addressing these issues and the need for stronger institutions and regional cooperation. The conversation also explores U.S. policy in Latin America and the need for a consistent and inclusive approach.

Fulton is currently a senior fellow at American University’s Center for Latin American and Latino Studies. He followed Latin American affairs for almost 30 years in a number of U.S. government positions. He also worked and studied in Europe, Asia and Latin America for numerous years. From 2008-2011, he served as a senior professional staff member responsible for Latin America on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Prior to this, Armstrong served at the U.S. Interests Section in Havana and subsequently as senior analyst at the CIA. He served two terms as the director for Inter-American Affairs at the National Security Council (1995-97 and 1998-99), between which he was deputy NIO for Latin America.

To learn more about Fulton:

• American University bio: https://www.american.edu/sis/faculty/fultona.cfm
• Syracuse University bio: https://www.maxwell.syr.edu/directory/fulton-armstrong

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