The “New Threats” security doctrine and the militarization of disasters in the Americas: an analysis of the Chile-US alliance (2010–2020)

Purpose This article examines the militarization of disaster response in the Americas, focusing on the alliance between the USA and Chile (2010–2020). It analyzes how the USA promoted this agenda through the “New Threats” security doctrine in regional forums, with Chile playing a key role in advancing military coordination in disaster response. Design/methodology/approach The study employs a qualitative approach, drawing on sources such as declarations, reports and minutes from the Conference of Ministers of Defense of the Americas (CMDA), the Conference of American Armies (CAA) and the South American Defense Conferences (SOUTHDEC). It also examines bilateral meetings and agreements between USA and Chilean defense authorities. Findings The US framed disasters as a security issue, integrating them into its regional defense agenda. Chile emerged as a central actor in promoting military involvement in disaster response, proposing mechanisms like SICOMIDECA and MECODE-CMDA. Despite resistance from some countries, Chile’s efforts, supported by the USA, culminated in the approval of MECODE-CMDA in 2020. Originality/value This study offers a critical perspective on the USA–Chile alliance and its impact on regional security dynamics, highlighting the militarization of disaster response as a key feature of post-Cold War hemispheric relations.