U.S. and China Rivalry in Latin America and Africa

4 Credits.

China and the United States have engaged in an ever-deeper rivalry in Latin America and Africa to build political and security alliances, secure access to natural resources, invest in critical infrastructure, and win over skeptical publics. Both countries have shown willingness to mobilize expensive investments to solidify their ties in Africa and Latin America. In 2026, Presidents Trump and Xi issued updated national security strategy documents that highlighted their even more intense battle for economic and security influence in the global south. This seminar will explore the nature and breadth of competition from the policy maker perspective, including that of African and Latin American senior officials. Students will analyze the dynamics of the relationships looking at the interests of Latin American and African nations as well as the United States and China. Outside speakers with direct policy making experience will contribute to the discussion. Students will write policy analyses, engage in group exercises, and brief orally.