Other Regional Research

RAND engages in significant research in the regions of Latin America and Sub-Saharan Africa. RAND's Latin America work began during the Cold War era with in-depth analysis of U.S.-Cuban relations and has expanded to include issues related to health, education, economics, demographics, and political reform. RAND's work covering Sub-Saharan Africa encompasses many critical issues related to health, education, and political reform in the developing world.

Other Regional Research in the News

African Dictators Have Been Losing Power—Some to Democratic Governments. Militaries Can Tip the Scales Toward Democracy
Sep 16, 2019
Africa's security forces most often make headlines when they commit atrocities, crack down on protesters, or seize power in coups. But Africa's troops can also contribute to democracy and peace when they lay down their arms or refuse orders to turn their guns against the people.
Why Ethiopia Sailed While Zimbabwe Sank
Sep 9, 2019
At a time when outside powers are calibrating how they respond to political transitions around the world, the divergent paths of Ethiopia and Zimbabwe illustrate their precariousness and offer lessons for how the international community can support democratization processes in Africa and beyond.
Hurricane Recovery in the Bahamas: Turning Good Intentions into Good Decisions
Sep 6, 2019
Recovery in the Bahamas will have to be a balancing act. Plans will need to allow for transition toward long-term strategic goals for the nation, but also be mindful of not perpetuating inequities.
Counterproductive Counterinsurgency: Is Mozambique Creating the Next Boko Haram?
Sep 3, 2019
Despite recent claims of ties to the Islamic State, the threat in Mozambique from the Islamist insurgent group al-Sunnah wa Jamaah appears to be domestic, with scarce evidence of direct ties to international extremist groups. But if the Mozambique government continues to respond in a heavy-handed manner, the threat is likely to grow, with potentially devastating effects for the country and region.
Developing a Robust Water Strategy for Monterrey, Mexico: Planning Support Tool
Aug 9, 2019
This interactive tool demonstrates the data and analysis developed in support of Fondo de Agua Metropolitano de Monterrey's Monterrey Water Plan for 2050.
Developing a Robust Water Strategy for Monterrey, Mexico
Aug 9, 2019
Mexico's third-largest metropolitan area, Monterrey, faces future water security challenges as the region grows. Analysis of long-term trends and vulnerabilities in water management shows a robust, adaptive water management strategy can meet current and future needs.
Illicit Supply of Fentanyl and Other Synthetic Opioids
Jul 25, 2019
The drivers behind U.S. overdose deaths have changed in the last ten years. Today's problem largely comes from illicitly manufactured synthetic opioid powders, particularly fentanyl, much of which comes from China. Congress and executive agencies will need to look beyond available drug policy tools when considering responses.
What Should the United States Do About Venezuela?
Jun 24, 2019
If it becomes evident that Maduro isn't about to fall, then the Trump administration should revisit its sanctions and rescind those that weigh most heavily on the Venezuelan people, while targeting and isolating the regime.