U.S. POLICY SOLUTIONS FOR NORTHERN TRIANGLE PROBLEMS

Abstract

The Northern Triangle region of Central America has experienced instability for many years due to crime, violence, corruption, and a lack of economic opportunity for its citizens. This instability has driven irregular migration to the United States in record numbers for nearly a decade. This thesis presents a gap analysis and makes recommendations aimed at improving the overall effectiveness of U.S. initiatives to stabilize the Northern Triangle. The overall strategic focus, funding levels, consistency, and program evaluations are examined to determine how these initiatives have either promoted or hindered their success. Research indicates that the Mérida Initiative, the Central American Regional Security Initiative, and the U.S. Strategy for Engagement in Central America have focused primarily on the symptoms as opposed to the root causes of migration. This thesis finds that the U.S. funding intended for the Northern Triangle must be consistent, and the programs involved must be properly monitored and evaluated to determine their effectiveness. These U.S. initiatives could be more successful with a shift in strategy combined with well-funded, coordinated, and evaluated programs.