ABSTRACT
Latin America is comprised of a network of weak states, some hovering on the brink of collapse, while many others enjoy a measure of security, even if economic and state fragility remain predominant concerns. With inequitable free trade agreements between Latin America and the United States, coupled with a stagnant economy, the region saw little in the way of economic prosperity. As a result, black market economies, such as drug and human trafficking, have flourished along with guerilla groups, cartels, and paramilitary operations that have replaced the military dictatorships as the primary security threats to the region. Domestic terrorist groups and violent political actors have long been a threat to Latin America, and in recent years, these organizations have grown violent and aggressive with struggles for power and money. As a result of the violence, the already fragile states of Latin America have been severely weakened, which has raised credible security concerns for the people living in this region.
