Latin America’s security environment is evolving rapidly shaped by the interplay of transnational organised crime, climate-related pressures, technological disruption, and renewed great-power competition. At a time when global security cooperation is being tested, the United Kingdom and its Latin American partners face a defining opportunity to reimagine their strategic engagement. This year’s discussions will explore the future of UK–Latin American defence relations, the region’s perspectives on the war in Ukraine, innovation and emerging technologies in defence, Antarctic cooperation, responses to transnational crime, and Brazil’s evolving role in regional security.

The fourth Latin American Security Conference will bring together senior policymakers and experts from academia, industry and think tanks to discuss the current and emerging challenges that threaten to disrupt the region. We will focus on finding answers and identifying pathways to promote sustainable governance in the fields of defence and security.

RUSI’s Latin American Security Programme explores how shifting global dynamics shape the region’s security and its partnerships with the UK, Europe, the US, and the Indo-Pacific. The programme promotes dialogue and practical policy ideas to strengthen regional resilience, foster defence cooperation, and advance shared approaches to global stability and democratic security.

• Exploring the future of UK–Latin American defence cooperation amid shifting global alignments.
• Assessing Latin America’s response to the war in Ukraine and its implications for global order.
• Highlighting opportunities for technological and industrial collaboration between the UK and Latin America.
• Exploring opportunities for security cooperation in the South Atlantic and Antarctic.
• Addressing the evolving threats posed by organised crime and illicit economies.
• Examining Brazil’s defence posture and its role in shaping regional security frameworks.

Keynote speakers include: 

• Lord Vernon Coaker, Minister of State, UK Ministry of Defence

Who should attend

This conference is the leading forum in the UK for stakeholders interested in identifying and overcoming the obstacles to peace and prosperity in Latin America. The event will offer unparalleled networking opportunities for attendees to connect with policymakers, industry leaders, and experts.