In this new op-ed, GMU Econ masters student Lourdes Bautista and I argue that, despite the loathsome authoritarianism of Daniel Ortega, it would be a mistake to exclude Nicaragua from the CAFTA-DR trade agreement. Here’s our conclusion:
As the United States evaluates the possibility of blocking Nicaragua from CAFTA-DR, U.S. officials should not overlook the implications. Keeping Nicaragua in CAFTA-DR will help stabilize the immigration exodus in Central America, ensure the delivery of supplies during the COVID-19 crisis, and prevent U.S. adversaries from taking a leading role in the region.
