Panel Discussions

Health organizations and governments are on the move to control and find answers about a swine flu epidemic originating in Mexico.

"The Summit of the Americas provides a forum for Obama to shift focus from energy independence to a more practical and even a more desirable goal—energy interdependence," writes Lisa Viscidi in an op-ed for The Houston Chronicle. The original version of this article appears in the Spring 2009 issue of Americas Quarterly.

Days ahead of the Summit of the Americas, the White House eased Cuba restrictions, making it easier for Cuban Americans to travel to the island and send remittances to family members there. The changes also allow for more humanitarian aid and bids by U.S. telecommunication firms.

Leading up to the Summit of the America, AS/COA Miami hosted a panel discussion on prospects for trade and integration in Latin America. At a time of financial crisis and a tendency toward protectionism, speakers agreed there is a need to consider a broader agenda for growth across the Western Hemisphere.

Leftist candidate Mauricio Funes won the March 15 election, unseating the ruling party by defeating Rodrigo Ávila at the polls. Ávila argued that Funes will mimic Venezuela's Chávez, but Funes said he looks to Brazil's Lula as an example.

An AS/COA program launched a new report by Fundacion IDEA on intellectual property rights protection in Mexico. Panelists discussed the larger linkages between IPR and innovation.

Ecuador faces harsh economic indicators in 2009. Still, President Rafael Correa commands high approval ratings as the country prepares for April elections.