Political geography examines the spatial distribution of political processes and how they impact the world’s regions. It includes the study of boundaries, divisions, and how they influence global relations.
South America
Countries and Borders
- Countries: South America consists of 12 independent countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Additionally, French Guiana is an overseas department of France.
- Borders: The political borders in South America are often shaped by historical treaties, colonial history, and natural features like rivers and mountain ranges. For example, the Andes Mountains form a natural border between Chile and Argentina.
Political Alliances and Organizations
- UNASUR (Union of South American Nations): This organization was aimed at regional integration, unifying two existing customs unions—Mercosur and the Andean Community of Nations. It focused on economic and political cooperation.
- MERCOSUR (Southern Common Market): Comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela (suspended), this organization aims to promote free trade and fluid movement of goods, people, and currency.
Political Issues and Examples
- Venezuela Crisis: Venezuela has faced significant political turmoil, with disputes over the legitimacy of presidential elections and severe economic problems leading to mass emigration and regional instability.
- Colombian Conflict: The long-standing conflict between the Colombian government, guerrilla groups like FARC, and paramilitary organizations has had major political and social implications, influencing regional security and diplomacy.
Federal vs. Unitary States
- Federal States: Brazil is an example of a federal republic in South America. It consists of 26 states and a federal district, each with its own government.
- Unitary States: Most South American countries, like Peru and Uruguay, have a unitary system where the central government holds the primary authority.
North America
Countries and Borders
- Countries: North America comprises three large countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It also includes Central American countries, such as Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama, as well as Caribbean nations like Cuba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.
- Borders: Significant political borders include the U.S.-Canada border, which is the longest undefended border in the world, and the U.S.-Mexico border, which is a major focus of political and security discussions.
Political Alliances and Organizations
- NAFTA/USMCA: The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in 2020. This agreement focuses on trade liberalization and economic integration among the three countries.
- OAS (Organization of American States): Headquartered in Washington, D.C., the OAS promotes democracy, human rights, security, and development across the Americas, including both North and South America.
Political Issues and Examples
- Immigration: The U.S.-Mexico border is a focal point for immigration policy, with significant political debates surrounding border security, migration, and asylum seekers.
- Quebec Sovereignty Movement: In Canada, the province of Quebec has a strong movement advocating for independence or greater autonomy, reflecting the region’s distinct French-speaking identity.
- Drug Trafficking: Mexico faces challenges with drug cartels, which have significant implications for national security, law enforcement, and international relations, especially with the United States.
Federal vs. Unitary States
- Federal States: The United States and Canada are examples of federal states. The U.S. has 50 states, each with its own government, while Canada has 10 provinces and 3 territories.
- Unitary States: In Central America, countries like El Salvador and Costa Rica have unitary systems where the central government holds primary authority.
These examples highlight the complexity and diversity of political geography in South and North America, reflecting historical contexts, regional dynamics, and contemporary political challenges.
