Hemispheric Nations Outline Joint Strategy Against Transnational Threats

Why it matters locally: The joint strategy to combat transnational organized crime, including drug cartels, could have a direct impact on Arizona, given its shared border with Mexico and established routes for illicit activities. Enhanced security measures and intelligence sharing could affect local law enforcement operations and efforts to curb drug trafficking and associated violence within the state.

WASHINGTON – Fifteen nations in the Western Hemisphere have declared their intention to enhance regional stability through a new initiative dubbed the "Shield of the Americas." The United States, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guyana, Honduras, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago released a joint statement on September 22, 2026, outlining the program's objectives. The initiative focuses on three primary pillars: economic development, security measures, and multilateral coordination. Participants stated their intention to act within their respective international and domestic legal frameworks. Under the economic pillar, the nations plan to boost economic cooperation, explore investment screening mechanisms, and diversify supply chains for critical minerals. They also aim to promote trusted supplier regulations for digital infrastructure on a non-discriminatory basis. The statement emphasized that economic development, stable employment, and transparent capital entry contribute to economic sovereignty. Regarding security, the participating governments intend to defend democratic governance against "armed narco-terrorist networks." This includes coordinating sanctions, designations, and financial actions against criminals and terrorists. They also plan to expand civilian law enforcement and provide humanitarian and messaging assistance. The third pillar emphasizes mutual respect for national sovereignty and self-determination through multilateral forums. These forums will facilitate coordination on shared objectives, such as international enforcement actions against transnational organized criminal groups and reforms to multilateral organizations. To further these pillars, the nations intend to strengthen cooperation through intelligence sharing, facilitate access to security technologies and capabilities, and promote training for human resources. They also plan to expand the exchange of best practices and deepen cooperation on investment and economic matters. Additionally, they will coordinate common positions in regional and multilateral forums. The statement identified transnational narco-terrorist organizations as an immediate and shared threat. As a first joint action under the new pillars, the nations announced individual and collective measures against "narco-terrorism." These measures include asset freezes, immigration and visa restrictions for members and supporters of these organizations, and criminal liability for individuals providing material support. This initial action targets 24 specific organizations. To facilitate these efforts, the participating states intend to co-sign a formal request to the President of the Organization of American States Permanent Council. This request will seek a consultation meeting to establish an Organ of Consultation under Articles 6 and 13 of the Inter-American Treaty on Reciprocal Assistance (Rio Treaty). Nations that are not parties to the Rio Treaty have expressed support and intend to contribute within their legal obligations. The 24 organizations targeted by the initiative include: Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13), Tren de Aragua, Carteles Unidos, Cartel del Golfo, La Nueva Familia Michoacana, Cartel del Noreste, Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generacion (CJNG), Cartel de Sinaloa, Gran Grif, Viv Ansanm, Los Lobos, Los Choneros, Barrio 18, Cartel de Los Soles, Clan del Golfo, Primeiro Comando da Capital, Comando Vermelho, Chone Killers, Los Viagras, Juarez Cartel (La Línea), FARC Dissident Groups (including FARC-Estado Mayor Central, FARC-Segunda Marquetalia, or aliases, affiliates, and successor groups), ELN, Shining Path (Sendero Luminoso), and Los Tiguerones.