All Latin America Monitor
On cusp of new year, Chavez's health keeps Venezuleans fixated on futureOver the weekend, the Venezuelan government informed the nation that ailing President Hugo Chavez has suffered 'new complications' from surgery earlier this month.
Venezuela: South America's most dangerous countryAccording to calculations made by a respected NGO, Venezuela is now far and away the most dangerous country in South America, with Caracas one of the most dangerous capitals in the world.
Why Latin Americans top the happiness rankingsA global index on happiness shows several Latin American countries topping the list. The report cites centrality of family as a key reason.
Top questions for Rio heading into 2013The host of the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics faces many questions as it prepares for mega-events that are changing the way things are working in Rio de Janeiro.
Uruguay postpones vote on 'state as dealer' approach to drug regulation - but not for long?President Mujica always said he wouldn't push the proposal if a majority of Uruguayans didn't accept it. But few think this postponement means the project is forever shelved.
US ex-marine to be released from prison after violating Mexico's strict gun lawsFormer US marine Jon Hammar was imprisoned in August for carrying an antique gun into Mexico. Despite record levels of violence, such arms are prohibited without permission from the government.
How the Zetas drug gang took MonterreyThe Zetas have many sides, but how and why the gang settled in Monterrey explains a lot about who they are and how they operate.
- What do Venezuela's regional election results say about the opposition's future?
Immediately before Venezuela's regional elections, Chávez announced his cancer was back, possibly dampening the opposition's showing as his charisma carried over to other PSUV candidates.
What happens if Venezuela's Hugo Chávez misses his inaguration?If Chávez can't attend his inauguration, his designated successor might be overshadowed by an interim leader.
- Honduran lawmakers fire four Supreme Court judges
The Honduran Congress ordered the removal of four Supreme Court judges who ruled a police vetting law unconstitutional. The constitutionality of whether Congress can do this is at question.
Is Latin America punishing nonviolent drug offenders too harshly?A new report reveals that punishments in Latin America for drug-related crimes – cultivation, use, or trafficking – have become as severe as those for violent offenses.
- El Salvador gangs accept proposal to create 'peace zones'
One of the aims of these 'peace zones' is to allow gang members to 'reinsert' themselves into society. However, acceptance may come with conditions, like the repeal of a 2009 anti-gang law.
McAfee's rise and downfall via technologyComputer protection guru John McAfee’s high-profile run from the law is over after his arrest in Guatemala. A simple slip in digital security may have helped lead to his capture.
- Chemical weapons in Syria: What can Latin America do about it?
Some Latin American nations voted against a UN resolution condemning violence in Syria this year. But the region can still send a message that the use of chemical weapons will end their support.
Latin America: Region one of worst for corruptionDespite economic strides, two-thirds of Latin America averaged in the bottom half of the 2012 Transparency International corruption rankings. Countries like Brazil, however, offer some hope.
- Would the US free the 'Cuban Five' in exchange for Alan Gross?
Three years ago, Alan Gross was arrested and found guilty of crimes against the 'sovereignty and territorial integrity' of Cuba. Now, he wants the US and Cuba to sit down together and negotiate his release.
As Peña Nieto prepares to take office in Mexico, a look back at Calderón's presidencyCalderón may have had good intentions when going on the offensive against drug gangs, however, the results from 2006 to 2012 didn't match up, writes guest blogger James Bosworth.
Chávez authorized to leave Venezuela for health treatment - Chavismo at risk?Chávez's travel to Cuba could mean missing important gubernatorial elections in December, potentially benefiting the opposition.
- Honduran police cleanup law may be unconstitutional
A branch of the Honduran Supreme Court deemed the law unconstitutional because it removes police officers' rights to due process. Next, the entire Supreme Court must convene to issue an opinion.
A US-Mexico policy duet?Mexico's President-elect Peña Nieto and Obama met yesterday and sang the same tune on many bilateral agenda items. Can their common goals survive their respective political systems?
