All Americas
- First LookPeruvian herders use ancient technology to manage water for the future
Dams, canals, and reservoirs dating back 3,000 years ago are being revived by alpine herders in partnership with The Mountain Institute in order to more efficiently manage water for pastures and animals.
- In push to end child marriage in Guatemala, young women are on the front line
Countries in Central America have strengthened laws against child marriage, but rates are still high. Real change comes from changing minds, advocates say – and local girls themselves can do that best.
- Honduras do-over, or done deal? Election puts monitors in the spotlight.
The OAS has called for a new vote after the November election, but Honduras has no legal obligation to follow their guidance. The confusion underscores the region's lack of trust in governing institutions, while raising questions about the role of election observers.
- In post-election limbo, Hondurans foresee next challenge: rebuilding trust
Protests over last month's disputed presidential election have simmered down, although no victor has been announced. But many Hondurans say the country has hard work ahead to restore their confidence in government, and each other.
- First LookVenezuelans facing currency crisis turn to bitcoin to survive
In the midst of a financial crisis with inflation nearing 2,000 percent, Venezuelans are using bitcoin to pay for groceries, medical bills, even honeymoons. Unaffected by the economic crisis, bitcoins gives users an alternative to black market worthless government currency.
- The ExplainerTPS: What it is and how it's changing
TPS provides short-term protection from deportation for people who can't return home because of national disasters, civil unrest, or health crises. Nicaraguans and Haitians lost protection this fall; Hondurans' and Salvadorans' status is under consideration.
- First LookCanada looks to China for trade deal
In an effort to advance globalization and secure trading partners outside of North America, Canada considers a free trade agreement with China.
- Weary of presidential election limbo, Hondurans demand transparency
As mistrust of the electoral system grows, Hondurans are taking to the streets to stand up for democracy – and their role in it.
- First LookColombia's congress approves bill creating alternative courts for members of FARC
Colombia is one step closer to implementing transitional justice courts for FARC rebels convicted of war crimes after the Chamber of Representatives approved a bill regulating the process.
- In post-conflict Colombia, land-rights and funding for peacebuilding face off
Colombia's Constitutional Court overturned a 2001 law that gave the federal government ultimate say over where mining projects took place. It's a victory for local communities, but with the government in need of billions to bank roll peace programs, can it last?
- Pixar's Day-of-the-Dead film 'Coco' aims to shake up image of Mexico
The rich history of Día de los Muertos isn't always understood in the US, despite increasing popularity. The filmmakers' attention to detail has earned 'Coco' fans in Mexico, at a time when many say their country is reduced to stereotypes abroad.
- In Latin America, no more women presidents – for now
As Chile votes, Latin America is poised to have no 'presidentas' for the first time in more than a decade. Does that matter?
- First LookWhere conflict once reigned in Colombia, coffee beans now grow
Since the peace deal between the government and FARC rebels in 2016, coffee growers have begun to return to their farmlands to cultivate the mild arabica bean that had been inaccessible to global markets during decades of fighting.
- First LookAmazon, Facebook, and others see opportunity in Mexico City
In reaction to anti-immigration sentiment in the US, some tech giants are setting up operations in Mexico, hoping to retain and attract foreign tech talent.
- First LookUnexpected victory: socialists win a majority of Venezuela gubernatorial elections
Pro-government candidates have won 17 of 22 races in which the outcomes were considered irreversible. It was a dramatic contrast to pre-election polls that projected widespread victories for the opposition party, which claims the results are fraudulent.
- Difference MakerWhen buildings crumble, these rescue 'moles' tunnel in to survivors
Pola Díaz Moffitt first pitched in to search-and-rescue efforts after Mexico City's 1985 earthquake, 32 years to the day before last month's temblor. She's been helping 'topos' groups find people trapped by disasters ever since.
- First LookHow extensive damage in Mexico City's earthquake could have been averted
Now that emergency efforts are well underway, architects and engineers are looking into the lax building codes and outdated structural designs were the cause of collapse for a majority of the buildings that were damaged during last month's quake.
- First LookBrazil tackles political bribes with a campaign fund sourced by taxpayers
As the nation searches for solutions to avoid future 'Car Wash' scandals, some critics worry this new fund could help politicians seeking re-election avoid persecution for corruption.
- After the quake: For Mexico's children, 'back to school' means a chance to heal
Ten days after a 7.1 earthquake rocked Mexico, many students – and parents – are eager for schools to reopen. But while reopening schools represents a welcome return to routine, it also means a return to ground zero.