Authors and Subject

Edy Kaufman, Department of International Relations, Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Yoram Shapiro, Latin American Studies Department, Hebrew University of Jerusalem; Joe Barromi, Director, UN Department of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Israel.

Study Focus

Interaction with Latin America has held varying degrees of importance in Israel's foreign relations. This study aims to present a comprehensive analysis of the patterns of continuity and change in Israel's relations with Latin America over a twenty-five year period, from the creation of the state to the 1973 October War.

Content and Evaluation

The authors provide a factual survey of major developments in Israeli-Latin American relations since 1948 — and evaluate the attitudes of Latin American decision makers toward Israel. This latter evaluation is accomplished by studying patterns of behavior, grouping nations according to levels of support for Israel, and analyzing the influence of different variables on the policymaking process both for each of the states involved and their interaction.

Structure of the Work

The work is divided into two basic units: background inputs and analysis of international and state relations. This division is utilized as the basis for the outputs of data and analysis on a multilateral as well as bilateral level, culminating in a detailed analysis of Latin American voting in the United Nations General Assembly.

Relevance and Perspective

Quite distinctive in subject and perspective. It is timely in its relevance to the Middle East conflict and the recent bid by Latin American leaders for greater influence in Third World politics.