Does Diminished US Influence in Latin America Represent a Success or Failure of US Policy?

Guest blogger Barb Costa checked out Dr. Richard D. Downie's, Director of Center of Hemispheric Defense Studies (CHDS), session on Latin America:

Does Diminished US Influence in Latin America Represent a Success or Failure of US Policy?

The answer is a resounding “yes!” During the Cold War the US did everything they could to influence Latin American economy, elections and government with the singular goal to deter the Soviets from wielding their influence in that part of the world. Post Cold War, “Democracy was busting out all over the place” according to Dr. Downie, which brought about a “diminished influence” from the US. Without the threat of communism on the horizon during the 90s, the US turned it’s attention to domestic matters and the Middle East, non-state actors were weaving their way into several Latin American countries.

Hugo Chavez was subtle at first, taking over the Venezuela’s courts, and Congress. The US did not react, so Chavez continued to tighten the reins on his people all the while building relationships with China and Iran. Unfortunately the US is better at a threat-based strategy versus an opportunity-based strategy. The long range strategy for the Latin America is unclear. Dr. Downie was concerned that “China is filing the vacuum as we continue to be marginalized in Latin America.”