Global Risk Indexes (08-03-2025)

Global 97 (0 —)
MENA 99 ( —)
APAC 97 ( —)
Europe 98 ( —)
Africa 97 (+1 ▲)
AMERs 95 (-1 ▼)
Markets 96 (-2 ▼)
Mateo Fernandez, Americas region analyst at Worldwise Analytica

Mateo Fernandez

Unraveling the Threads of Americas' Geopolitics: Insight, Precision, Vision

Economic Shifts, Security Crises, and Political Instability Drive Latin America's Geopolitical Transformation

Latin America is undergoing a fundamental geopolitical transition, shaped by economic diversification, worsening security threats, and rising political unrest. Today’s developments highlight the growing fragmentation of traditional power structures and the increasing instability in governance models.

Economic diversification efforts are reshaping Latin America’s trade landscape. Regional economies are reducing their dependence on U.S. trade networks and seeking stronger economic ties with China, the EU, and other global actors. This shift is weakening Washington’s influence in the region and increasing the role of alternative economic partnerships.

Security conditions in Mexico are deteriorating as organized crime expands operations. Cartel influence is growing, exacerbating governance challenges and increasing the risk of state failure in certain regions. The inability to contain cartel activity is also fueling tensions with the U.S., which continues to push for expanded security cooperation.

Political instability is escalating across multiple Latin American countries. Widespread protests and demonstrations are signaling deep dissatisfaction with economic policies, governance failures, and systemic corruption. The scale of public unrest suggests that political volatility will remain a defining feature of the region in the coming months.

Diplomatic tensions between Latin America and Washington are increasing. Several governments are pursuing foreign policies that diverge from U.S. strategic interests, opting for greater autonomy and stronger engagement with non-Western powers. This shift reflects a broader geopolitical realignment in the region.

Short-term risks include worsening security threats in Mexico, rising political instability, and increased diplomatic friction with the U.S. In the long term, Latin America is moving toward a fragmented geopolitical landscape, with multiple competing economic and political influences shaping the region’s future.

Geopolitical Risk Assessment for the Americas
(08-03-2025)

Geopolitical instability in the Americas remains high, driven by worsening economic stress, deteriorating security conditions, and shifting diplomatic alignments. Latin America is continuing to diversify trade partnerships, reducing reliance on U.S. economic frameworks and strengthening ties with China and the EU. Security concerns remain acute, particularly in Mexico, where organized crime is expanding operations and challenging the state’s ability to maintain control. Political instability is also rising, with mass protests and demonstrations escalating across multiple nations. Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions between regional actors and Washington are increasing, as Latin American governments seek to assert greater autonomy in foreign policy decision-making. These developments indicate that the region is experiencing a long-term transition toward economic and political realignment, with sustained volatility in governance and security structures.

Geopolitical Risk Index

Developments to Follow for the Americas (See All Global)

Previous Briefings

See all previous briefings