Call for Papers: The new “hemispheric assertiveness” of the USA and implications for Germany and Europe

Heinrich Böll Stiftung Washington, DC • Washington, DC

11d • $10,000 - $10,000 • Remote

About The Position

This call for papers seeks research on the implications of the United States' renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere, particularly under a potential second Trump administration, for Germany and Europe. The paper should analyze how the US approach, echoing the Monroe Doctrine, impacts Latin America and South America, and how European policymakers should reassess their engagement with the region. Key areas of focus include the US "Donroe Doctrine," competition with China and Russia, transactional diplomacy, migration, trade, security cooperation, and the strategic importance of the region for democratic governance, sustainable development, green transition, economic resilience, critical raw materials, and geopolitical influence. The analysis should also explore the relationship between US concepts of "Western civilization" and the "Western Hemisphere" and their connection to Europe and Latin America. It should evaluate the effects of US trade policy, migration enforcement, sanctions, development assistance, and security cooperation on regional dynamics, and examine how Latin American governments are responding, increasing strategic autonomy, and creating opportunities for European engagement. The paper should also consider how the EU can deepen partnerships while avoiding perceptions of great-power competition or neo-colonialism. The ideal outcome is concrete recommendations for German and European policymakers on developing a coherent, long-term strategy, or alternatively, a presentation of future scenarios. Example research questions are provided to guide the analysis.

Requirements

• Strong expertise in Latin America and South America.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) of any authors (max. 2 pages in PDF, without photo, date of birth, religion, or marital status).
• Pitch document (1 page PDF) outlining the specific angle, qualifications, research proposal (approach, scope, structure, methods, missing aspects).
• Two samples of previous academic work (PDFs or links).

Nice To Haves

• Analysis including 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.
• Consideration of future scenarios of how the United States’ hemispheric assertiveness might develop after the next presidential elections.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed