All Americas
- FocusA welfare check under fire in BrazilBrazil's landmark welfare program stipulates kids go to school and visit doctors regularly. But what happens to a family's government stipend when neighborhood violence keeps kids at home?
Will Chile bring back former President Bachelet?As Chileans go to the polls Sunday, they are likely to select former head of state Michelle Bachelet, who many believe can answer the chorus of Chilean grievances. Are expectations too high?
Venezuela's regional energy program Petrocaribe wobblesGuatemala announced in early November that it was pulling out of Venezuela's Petrocaribe alliance. The Chavez-era oil-for-regional-influence program could be on its last legs.
Why does the PlayStation 4 cost $1,850 in Brazil?The PlayStation 4, which goes on sale in Latin America on Nov. 29, runs only $399 in the US 鈥� but for the average Brazilian, it will cost two months' salary.
Mexico vs. New Zealand World Cup qualifier: Little to cheer for?As Mexico enters the first leg of a home-and-home series against New Zealand for a spot at the 2014 World Cup, some Mexican fans are rooting against the home team.
Venezuela to businesses: Everything must go - or else.Venezuelan soldiers, on President Maduro's orders, forcibly slashed prices at an electronics retailer over the weekend. Now, businesses large and small nervously await his next move.
Is Nicaragua's Constitution facing an extreme Sandinista makeover?The proposed reforms would target presidential reelection and the role of the military in politics 鈥撀� affecting nearly one-fifth of the constitution.
Dipping 'pura vida'? Costa Ricans show lack of enthusiasm in run-up to February electionsAccording to polls, about 32 percent of Costa Rica's 3聽million eligible voters say they plan to abstain from casting ballots due to corruption, lack of leadership, and high unemployment.
President Maduro says he'll fight Venezuela's 'economic war' 鈥� but can he win?At any given store in Venezuela, 22.4 percent of basic consumer goods are unavailable as the South American country's economic performance reaches crisis dimensions.
Colombia-FARC reach accord on ex-rebels' future political roleThis is the second measure agreed to over the past year, and will allow ex-rebels to participate in politics if a broader peace agreement to end the conflict is reached.
Rio de Janeiro tells tourists: no more butts on the beachRio now imposes tough penalties on littering by locals and visitors alike, with discarded cigarette butts incurring a $65 fine. Can it put a dent in deeper problems of trash collection and landfills?
Toronto Mayor Rob Ford: a political odyssey turns strangerThe embattled mayor of Canada's largest city admitted that he had in fact smoked crack cocaine. It's the latest twist in Mayor Ford's dizzying political career, which is captivating much of Canada.
Lights out in western Mexico: Attacks lead to loss of electricity, political confidence.Following a criminal attack on gas and power stations in the Mexican state of Michoacan, some have asked if the federal government could take over the local government.
Six months into term, Venezuela's President Maduro seeks decree powersDecree powers would allow Maduro to bypass public debate and potential opposition in passing laws.- New wrinkle in battle over mining in El Salvador?El Salvador and Canadian mining firm Pacific Rim are in a high-profile arbitration over permitting. What does the company's sale to an Australian firm mean for the Salvadoran mining sector?
Is Brazil feeding the world as Brazilians go hungry?Brazil is the world鈥檚 top exporter of soy and poultry, much of it headed to China to feed its growing middle class. But some say Brazil is ignoring hunger at home.
Payment overdue: Can Mercosur make Venezuela pay?Brazil may have wanted Venezuela in the South American trade bloc to protect its companies. But will it work?- Teen motherhood: how does Latin America stack up?Teen motherhood is something that perpetuates poverty and puts girls' health and life at risk, according to a new UN Population Fund report released today.
Argentina: Will controversial media law help or hinder 30 years of democracy?After four years of legal turmoil, the Supreme Court ruled that a media law aimed at reining in huge media players was constitutional.
Colombia's Santos squeezed between peace and politicsPresident Santos' predecessor in Colombia has called him a 'traitor,' attacking FARC peace negotiations, and vowing to sink him at the polls.
