The NPR Politics Podcast Democratic Backsliding Rocks The Summit Of The Americas Before It Begins
Jun 7, 2022
Tensions rise ahead of a pivotal gathering of American leaders as notable absences, like Mexico's president, spark controversy over excluded nations labeled as 'dictators.' The discussion delves into the Biden administration's balancing act between promoting democracy and managing realpolitik in the region. Migration challenges take center stage, necessitating a collaborative approach to address root causes. Amidst these serious topics, the complexity of organizing international summits adds another layer of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
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Summit Guest List Controversy
- The Summit of the Americas guest list has been controversial, focusing on who's invited and who's not.
- Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador won't attend because Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua were excluded.
U.S. Influence Waning
- The White House excluded non-democratic nations from the summit to uphold democratic principles.
- This has highlighted the waning U.S. influence in Latin America and the region's shifting political landscape.
Central American Absences
- Several Central American countries are sending lower-level representation, raising concerns about addressing migration effectively.
- Some suggest these countries are using the guest list controversy as an excuse to avoid discussions about their own democratic backsliding.