North-South Center

The Dante B. Fascell North-South Center "at the University of Miami is an independent research and educational institution committed to promoting better relations among the United States, Canada, and the nations of Latin America and the Caribbean by advancing knowledge and understanding of the major political, social, economic, and cultural issues affecting the citizens of the Western Hemisphere. The Center's research encompasses issues such as democratic governance, trade and economic policy, sustainable development, migration, civil society participation, and inter-American business and labor issues. This wide range of expertise has distinguished the North-South Center as a reliable resource for policymakers, scholars, and business leaders. Public-private partnerships with institutions in the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Canada enhance the Center's research and outreach projects by communicating its work with a wide audience. The Center's research has also played a significant role in framing policy dialogue among key decisionmakers and scholars in the Americas.

"The North-South Center Press publishes books, monographs, and reports that advance policy-relevant knowledge and understanding of the major contemporary economic, social, political, and cultural issues of Western Hemisphere relations. These publications represent an important resource from which policymakers, business practitioners, students, and professors can derive thoughtful insights, strategic assessments, and up-to-date research on vitally important inter-American policy issues."

Background
"In August [2003], the university reported plans to overhaul the center and said its director is to remain. Last month, UM announced it would partner with RAND Corp. to restructure the center.

"RAND Executive Vice President Michael Rich was unavailable for an interview this week but released this statement: "RAND is moving forward in partnership with the University of Miami to restructure the North-South Center. The congressional action was disappointing, but we are committed to developing a sound concept for an exciting partnership."

"Mr. Glaser said, "Obviously, we hope there is some way of correcting this. We are absolutely committed to keeping this partnership going."

"Adding the center to UM's budget is possible, he said. The center has tapped into grants, including more than $400,000 in 2001 from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

"Ambler Moss, director of the North-South Center, could not be reached this week.

"The prestigious public-policy and research center was created in 1984 to analyze global and regional issues affecting the Western Hemisphere.

"In August, UM said the decision to reorganize the center and cut staff was made because of a reduction in federal support. Last year, the center applied for $2 million but received only $500,000 from the government. In 1991, the center received $10 million."

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