A comprehensive introduction to the important economic, social and political processes and development issues in this extremely popular region. The Central American nations and those of the Caribbean (including Guyana, Surinam and French Guiana on the mainland) share many historical processes as well as experiencing similar development problems today. These include European colonialism, structural adjustment, small size, reliance on primary production, influence of the United States and moves towards democratisation. While Mexico is obviously a much larger country in area, economy and population terms, it is included in this volume because of its close ties to the other countries in the region through processes such as trade and migration.

1. Introduction (Katie Willis and Cathy McIlwaine);
2. Globalisation and Agribusiness (Andy Torpe);
3. Globalisation and Industrial MNCs (Carolina Ladino);
4. Poverty (Cathy McIlwaine);
5. Sustainable Cities (Mark Pelling);
6. Environmental Issues (Sarah Howard);
7. Employment and Livelihoods (Sally Lloyd-Evans);
8. NGOs and Social Movements (Nikki Craske);
9. Family Diversity and Masculinities (Sylvia Chant);
10. Cultural/National Identity (Tracey Skelton);
11. Regional Integration (Rob Potter)

Katie Willis, Cathy Mcilwaine