Justin Trudeau Resigns

 

Justin Trudeau has resigned as Canada's prime minister. The Liberal Party is facing struggles on multiple fronts. Questions are mounting on who will get the leadership of the Liberal Party. This is a major change considering Trudeau has been in office since 2015. While some legislation benefited Canada under his leadership, other policies undermined progress. The concept of postnational state had some unforeseen consequences. Opening the Canada to refugees and more immigration without more accommodation generated public concern. More border crossings were happening at Roxham Road. The economic relations with the United States became more turbulent during the Trump administration. NAFTA was replaced with the United States-Mexica Canada Agreement. CUSMA did not improve the financial situation of the Canadian citizen. Tariffs became a topic of serious discussion. Steel and aluminum were effected the most in Canada. Foreign policy tended to follow a pattern common among western liberals. Canada's attitude toward China became more contentious and the support for the Russia-Ukraine War did not advance Canada's objectives in Europe. A peaceful Europe is better for Canada, rather than  keeping the conflict going. Diplomatic relations with India were in decline during the early 2020s. Much of this is due to India's accusation of Canada's support for the Khalistan  movement. The movement wants to see an independent Sikh state. Canada has a Sikh population, which advocates for a new nation on the Indian  subcontinent . Prime Minister Justin Trudeau could not formulate a policy to navigate these complications of foreign policy. The government could not survive decreasing poll numbers and  election losses. The wave of cabinet resignations demonstrated the frustration with Trudeau's premiership.  

Claudia Sheinbaum Elected President of Mexico

 

Mexico has elected Claudia Sheinbaum as their next president. This is the first time in Mexico's history that they have elected a woman as head of state. While some celebrate the electoral victory, there are some harsh political realities. The border crisis is an ongoing challenge. Migrants and refugees cross in to Mexico from Central American countries. Mexico has a number of its citizens who leave the country. Crime and the violence of drug cartels are the biggest push factors. The high rates of femicide make Mexico unsafe for women.  Economic concerns are another. Mexico must do all that it can to stop migration and citizens from relocating. The reason Claudia Sheinbaum was able to get 60% of the vote was due to specific policies. The Morena Party puts emphasis on social welfare programs. This has helped a portion of the Mexican population get out of poverty. If Claudia Sheinbaum wants to have a successful administration this policy must continue. Sheinbaum has been involved in politics since the year 2000. She is not a new political figure, but offers the possibility of effective change. This is limited, because a Mexican president can only serve one term of six years. The Mexican Constitution imposed sexenio. The reason for this was to prevent presidents from becoming authoritarian. Claudia Sheinbaum cannot run for reelection in six years. A head of state cannot not make vast progress in a short period of time. Being a leftist, it is curious to see what her policies will be regarding Venezuela, Nicaragua, Colombia, Honduras,  and Cuba. The assumption Mexico will have enhanced diplomatic  relations with these countries. This complicated by the fact Mexico is an ally of the United States, a country seeking regime change in South American countries. President Claudia Sheinbaum will have to navigate the regional politics of Central and North America.  

President Pedro Castillo Has Been Removed From Office

 

Peru is facing a constitutional crisis. When President Pedro Castillo attempted to dissolve the Congress, more discord emerged . The move was a way to avoid impeachment proceedings. His arrest does pose an issue. If impeachment proceedings never occurred and a formal removal from office never took place this could violate the constitution. President Pedro Castillo has been accused of inciting rebellion and constitutional violations. A trial has not been scheduled nor is there evidence at the moment of corruption. Dina Bolurate has been selected to finish up Castillo's term. That means she will be president until 2026. Peru's situation parallels Bolivia's political crisis. A left-wing president being deposed by right-wing opposition has become too common in Latin America. Leftist governments even though they are legitimately elected, they  are not allowed to rule. Peaceful and orderly transfers of power are disappearing. South America might be reverting to how it was in the 19th century. Extreme political factionalism,  erratic transfers of power, and authoritarian like political structures. According to reports, Castillo appeared to be making an attempt to leave the country. This indicates possible political persecution. Much of the discontent comes from an increase in fuel and fertilizer prices. This caused Peruvians to hold demonstrations. Farmers and lorry drivers were the most effected by the price rise. Imposing a curfew and a state of emergency reduced support for the Castillo presidency.    

Xiomara Castro Elected President of Honduras

Xiomara Castro has been elected president of Honduras. This brings an end to the conservative administration of President Juan Orlando Hernandez. Xiomara Castro's husband was deposed by a military coup in 2009. President Manuel Zelaya was removed by not just by the military , but the right-wing business elite. The National Party is losing power. The concern is if another coup could happen due to external pressure from the United States. The US has already attempted to interfere in Nicaragua and Honduras could be the next target. The Obama administration did not cuts ties or aid when the 2009 coup occurred. Celebrations are happening for a change in administration, yet many challenges remain . Xiomara Castro is the country's first president to not be either in the Liberal Party or National Party. Her party is Liberal and Refoundation Party. It is uncertain how this political party will govern. Xiomara Castro has stated that reproductive rights, fighting corruption, and reversing the policies of the Hernandez administration. Drug trafficking also has become a major concern having links to the current president. Xiomara Castro will take office in January of 2022. This will make her the country's first female  president. How this will impact women living in Honduras is yet to be seen. The president elect has much to consider. Honduras should make the needed alliances with other leftist governments  such as  Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua . This ensures protection from coups and  foreign intervention.  

Barbados Is Now A Republic

 

Dame Sandra Mason 

Barbados has removed Queen Elizabeth II as their head of state. This makes Barbados the world's newest republic. This is a significant moment considering the island's history. The legacy of enslavement and colonialism  left a horrible mark. The trans-Atlantic slave trade caused much damage across the Caribbean, while enriching the British Empire. Dame Sandra Mason will take over as president of Barbados. Mason served as Governor-General and will be taking over the role that was filled by Queen Elizabeth II. What has been done in Barbados will hopefully encourage other former ex-colonies to remove the British monarchy as serving a head of state role. A new political trend could be emerging. Prime Minister Mia Mottley will remain  in office following the change in government. There remains uncertainty about the relations between the United Kingdom and Barbados. The country will remain in the Commonwealth of Nations . Barbados has been independent since 1966,but now it looks to a new future in the Americas. Reaching out to South American nations should be a foreign policy priority. The island must continue to diversify its economy beyond sugar exports and tourism. A new patriotic enthusiasm is building and leaders should channel that energy to further development objectives. The establishment of  the  republic makes way for multiple opportunities.