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The second Trump administration has revived longstanding debates about the role of the United States in the Western Hemisphere - as well as about the notion of the "Western Hemisphere" itself. Echoing elements of the original Monroe Doctrine, often now dubbed the "Donroe Doctrine", the administration has signaled a renewed emphasis on limiting the influence of geopolitical competitors including China and Russia-in Latin America, the Caribbean, and South America while pursuing a more transactional approach to diplomacy, migration, trade, and security cooperation. As governments across the region navigate an increasingly fragmented international order characterized by larger powers exerting spheres of influence, European policymakers in turn must reassess their own engagement with Latin America and South America, recognizing both the opportunities and constraints created by shifting US priorities. For Germany and the European Union, the region represents not only a strategic partner in advancing democratic governance, sustainable development, and the green transition, but also a critical arena for economic resilience, critical raw materials, and geopolitical influence.
This policy paper will examine how the Trump administration's policies toward Latin America and South America reflect, reinterpret, or depart from the principles of the Monroe Doctrine and assess the implications for European foreign and economic policy. Ideally, the analysis would include a discussion of the logical and conceptual relationship (or contradictions) between the current US administration's focus on "Western civilization" and the "Western Hemisphere" - and how they each relate to Europe and Latin America as well as conclusions the latter two should draw.
The analysis should evaluate how US actions-including trade policy, migration enforcement, sanctions, development assistance, security cooperation, and competition with China-are reshaping political and economic dynamics across the region. Particular attention should be paid to how Latin American governments are responding to these changes, where strategic autonomy is increasing, and where new opportunities for European engagement are emerging. The paper should also consider how the European Union can deepen partnerships with democratic governments, regional organizations, and civil society while avoiding perceptions of great-power competition or neo-colonialism.
Ideally, the report should conclude with concrete recommendations for German and European policymakers on how to develop a coherent, long-term strategy toward Latin America and South America in an era of renewed US hemispheric assertiveness. Alternatively, it could present a number of future scenarios of how the United States' hemispheric assertiveness might develop after the next presidential elections. Further example research questions include: To what extent does the Trump administration's regional strategy constitute a modern version of the Monroe Doctrine? How are Latin and South American governments balancing relations between the United States, China, and the European Union? Which sectors-including energy, critical minerals, digital infrastructure, climate cooperation, and supply chains-offer the greatest potential for expanded European engagement in the Americas? How can Europe position itself as a credible, values-based, and reliable long-term partner while advancing its strategic interests? What other (European) narratives and geographic imaginaries (i.e. going beyond civilizational and hemispheric discourses) would be welcomed by Latin American actors against the backdrop of the current geopolitical shifts? What diplomatic, economic, and development initiatives should Germany and the European Union prioritize to strengthen democratic resilience, economic cooperation, and multilateral governance throughout the region?
WHAT WE OFFER

• A grant of $10,000 for a 20-25 page paper.
• Your research and analysis will be featured through our international network, including on our websites and at curated events or briefings with policymakers.

WHO SHOULD APPLY
We welcome submissions from:

• Academics, researchers, think tankers and journalists, with strong expertise in Latin America and South America.

WHAT WE EXPECT

• Research and write a 20-25 page paper until October 31, 2026. Submit a first draft by October 15, 2026.
• Present research findings in fall/winter 2026 at virtual roundtable with policymakers and experts.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
Applications should include the following materials:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) of any authors. Please use a standard format, max. 2 pages in PDF. Do not include a photo, date of birth, religion, or marital status.
• Pitch document (1 page PDF). Outline the following:
  • The specific angle of the paper you wish to research
  • Your qualifications and relevant experience
  • Your research proposal: How do you plan to approach the research questions? How do you intend to scope and structure your research? What methods do you plan on using? Which questions and aspects are missing in our call for papers?
• Work samples. Submit two samples of previous academic work, either as PDFs or links.

Applications are due by Friday, August 21, 2026 at 10:00am ET.
All applications must be submitted through BambooHR. We are unable to consider applications submitted elsewhere.
Please email jason.moyer[at]us.boell.org with any questions.