Long overshadowed by other continents with larger greenhouse gas emitters, more vulnerable ecosystems or more investment-attractive energy markets, Latin and South American countries have not historically been recognized as major players in international climate talks.

Analysts say that’s about to change. When Mexico hosts the next major climate summit this December, a new U.N. chief from Costa Rica will orchestrate the proceedings. Brazil will wield an influential role among large developing nations. Colombia will maneuver behind the scenes to find compromises. And Bolivia — joined by Nicaragua and Venezuela — will lead the charge for climate “justice.”

“The Americas are moving, and they’re moving strongly. Latin America is making its mark,” said Jose Alberto Garibaldi, a former member of Mexico’s delegation to the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change and now the director of Energia Research.