The article discusses the rise in global poverty due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). Despite LAC's relatively small increase in poverty compared to South Asia, the region's economic contraction and slow recovery pose significant challenges. The pandemic has exacerbated the 'middle-income trap' for LAC countries, with some falling to lower income levels. The article highlights Brazil's success in mitigating poverty through rescue measures but notes the overall increase in poverty when Brazil is excluded. It also points out that the new poor in LAC are generally better educated and urban, which may aid in recovery. The authors argue for a vulnerability-based approach to poverty, emphasizing the need for expanded vaccine access, inclusive policies, and support from multilateral organizations like the World Bank. They also stress the importance of addressing societal frustrations and political polarization in the wake of the pandemic.

The 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) in Egypt is significant for Latin America and the Caribbean, as climate change poses a threat but also presents opportunities for the region. Immediate action is needed to address the impacts of climate change on people, such as droughts and floods, which could push millions into extreme poverty and force migration. The region is adapting with innovations in agriculture and financial products to tackle climate risks. A shift towards decarbonization offers economic benefits, with the potential to lead in clean energy technologies using resources like copper and lithium. Over 50% of the region's energy production is already from clean and renewable sources. The Amazon rainforest, as a major carbon sink, plays a crucial role in global sustainability efforts, and its preservation offers economic benefits to indigenous and vulnerable communities.

The World Bank's report 'Indigenous Latin America in the Twenty-First Century' highlights the challenges faced by the indigenous population in Latin America. With an estimated 42 million indigenous people in the region, countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, and Bolivia have the largest indigenous populations. The report points out that indigenous people suffer from high levels of poverty, with 43 percent living in poverty and 24 percent in extreme poverty, rates significantly higher than those of non-indigenous people. Indigenous children born to indigenous parents are more likely to grow up in poverty. The lack of formal land recognition, insufficient public investment, and barriers to participation in the economy and political processes exacerbate their vulnerability, especially to climate change and health crises like COVID-19.

Two years after the pandemic began, 2022 starts with hopeful signs of economic recovery in Latin America and the Caribbean, despite the visible scars of the crisis. Poverty and inequality have increased, and employment has only partially recovered. The region's GDP grew by 6.7% in 2021, but challenges remain, including the need to ensure vaccination against COVID-19, with significant disparities among countries. Four key areas are identified for bolstering sustainable growth: improving firm productivity and job creation, addressing high debt levels, reversing educational losses from the pandemic, and acting on climate change. The World Bank is supporting various initiatives across the region to address these challenges, aiming for a more inclusive and greener growth.

El artículo narra la historia de Gertrudis, quien regresa a La Habana después de seis años de exilio en Miami, a raíz de la muerte de su tío. En su regreso, se enfrenta a la transformación de la ciudad y la necesidad de revelar a su exnovio Enrique que tiene una hija con él. La Habana se muestra como un lugar cambiado, ajeno y deteriorado, reflejando el impacto del exilio en la literatura cubana a través de generaciones. 'No me hablen de Cuba', de Grethel Delgado, es presentado como una obra que explora el retorno a los orígenes y los sentimientos encontrados del inmigrante, ofreciendo una experiencia sensorial que oscila entre la nostalgia y la desesperanza por una Habana que ya no es la misma.

Latin America and the Caribbean are experiencing their worst education crisis in a century due to school closures during the pandemic, with significant learning losses that could reduce lifetime earnings by 12%. A high-level meeting in Bogotá, Colombia, will discuss the future of basic education in the region, aiming to ensure quality education for all by 2030—a goal that may not be met due to the pandemic. The article emphasizes the need for prioritizing basic education, conducting student learning assessments, implementing recovery programs, and adopting innovative pedagogical approaches. It also highlights the importance of teacher support and training, safe and inclusive schools, mental health care, and equal access to digital learning. Successful initiatives from Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, and Colombia are mentioned as examples of best practices.

Juan Carlos Calderón's novel 'Noticias del nuevo reino' serves as a fictionalized portrayal of drug trafficking in Ecuador, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. The book is discussed in a university class, where it is used to understand the complexities of organized crime, corruption, and the involvement of political and business elites in illegal activities. The novel, part of the noir genre, is recognized for its ability to organize fragmented real-life events into a coherent narrative, offering insights into the country's challenges with crime and corruption. Calderón's work reflects his commitment to addressing these issues and his hope for change.

The article discusses the unique position of Alaska as a home to a large population of Indigenous people, highlighting the intersection of diverse cultures, languages, and histories. It addresses the significant challenges faced by Alaska Natives, including limited access to social services, infrastructure, and employment opportunities. The focus is also on the pressing issue of climate change, which is impacting Alaska at a much faster rate than the global average, with rapidly shrinking ice coverage. The piece spotlights the efforts of two young Indigenous activists, Brittany Woods-Orrison and Rodney Evans, who are working to change the future of their homeland through activism and art, aiming for the thriving of Indigenous communities, the preservation of traditional lifestyles, and the pursuit of self-determination.

Yvonne 'Von' Mahelona, a 30-year-old Native Hawaiian activist, joined a protest on Mauna Kea, Hawai‘i, to oppose the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) by the Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory. Native Hawaiians consider Mauna Kea a sacred site where they have historically conducted sacred ceremonies and buried ancestors. The TMT project, valued at $1.5 billion, aims to enhance astronomical research, but Mahelona and other activists view it as a continuation of Western imperialism and disregard for indigenous land and traditions. They have set up camp to block the access road and prevent construction, fighting for land, water, climate justice, and liberation.

Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean, addresses the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's employment in the region. The World Bank's studies show that women faced higher unemployment rates, job insecurity, and income loss compared to men, particularly in sectors with high female employment such as trade, personal services, education, and hospitality. The pandemic threatens to reverse decades of progress in closing the gender gap in the labor market. On International Women's Day, Jaramillo emphasizes the need for countries to intensify efforts to achieve inclusive growth by supporting women's full participation in the economy. He cites World Bank-supported programs in Honduras, Guatemala, Brazil, Mexico, and Uruguay that aim to empower women and reduce gender disparities in various fields.

Carlos Felipe Jaramillo discusses the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on women's employment in Latin America and the Caribbean, as revealed by World Bank studies. The pandemic has exacerbated job insecurity, reduced income, and increased financial dependence for women more than men, with a 44 percent higher likelihood of unemployment for women. Sectors with high female employment, such as trade, personal services, education, and hospitality, were severely affected. The World Bank's Gender Innovation Lab (LACGIL) study highlights the growing gender gap and the need for policies to support women's job security. On International Women's Day, the call to action is to prioritize closing the gender gap for inclusive growth post-pandemic. The World Bank is involved in various programs to support women's employment and leadership in the region. The article emphasizes the importance of reversing the pandemic's negative effects to continue the progress made in women's labor participation over the past decades.

The article is a personal account of a tenant who faced eviction during Hurricane Ida in 2021 when their landlord sought to increase the rent. The tenant, with the help of Make the Road New York, fought the eviction and returned to their apartment, only to face a $1,000 monthly rent increase. The article highlights the broader issue of a lack of tenant protections in New York, with landlords exploiting the situation to raise rents and evict tenants. The author calls for the passage of good cause eviction protections and other measures to help tenants, emphasizing the support these protections have among New Yorkers and the urgency for elected officials to act.

In McFarland, California, a debate has arisen over the use of the local library building. Police Chief and City Manager Kenny Williams is advocating for the library, which is a safe haven for children and a community hub, to be converted into a new police station due to increasing crime and city growth. The library is currently owned and operated by Kern County. This proposal has caused a split in the community, which relies on the library as a place of safety and learning for children, especially as their parents work in the agricultural fields. The current police department facilities are inadequate, with limited space and resources, prompting Williams' push for the change.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have significantly impacted Central America, leading to setbacks in poverty and inequality reduction. Central America needs a common roadmap to achieve sustainable and inclusive growth. Increasing productivity and trade integration are key to prosperity and job creation. Despite trade agreements, intra-regional trade in Central America is low compared to other regions. Improving technology adoption, education, infrastructure, trade facilitation, factor and product markets, and institutions can enhance export quality and competitiveness. Simplified, digitalized, and harmonized trade policies can reduce costs and waiting times. The World Bank prioritizes trade facilitation in post-pandemic recovery, supporting reforms in Costa Rica and El Salvador, where import times have been significantly reduced.

Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, Vice President at the World Bank, discusses the significant impact of climate change on Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region, emphasizing the urgent need for action. He highlights the threats posed by climate change, such as increased droughts, floods, and potential mass displacement of people. Jaramillo points out that while climate change presents a major challenge, addressing it also offers substantial opportunities for economic development and innovation in the region. He cites examples of adaptation and resilience in agriculture and infrastructure, and the potential for LAC countries to lead in decarbonization and renewable energy, particularly through the use of resources like copper and lithium. Jaramillo also stresses the importance of preserving forests like the Amazon as both an economic and environmental imperative. He concludes by asserting that tackling climate change can simultaneously protect the region's people and foster economic growth.

Latin American families are increasingly struggling to afford food due to the global crisis that has significantly raised fuel and food prices, eroding purchasing power, especially for the poorest households. The World Bank survey indicates over 30% of households in Andean, Caribbean, and Central American countries face these challenges. The crisis, exacerbated by climate events and COVID-19, affects global food security as Latin America is the world's largest net food exporter. Short-term measures include protecting vulnerable populations and maintaining food market flows, while long-term strategies involve investing in green, resilient, and inclusive food systems. The World Bank has provided substantial support to Latin America's food systems and is ready to assist with emergency measures and long-term resilience investments.

The article discusses the World Bank's commitment to Haiti's recovery following the devastating 2021 earthquake and the socioeconomic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The author, the World Bank’s Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean, highlights the three key areas of their work: intelligence gathering, resource mobilization, and implementation of recovery efforts. Despite the challenges of a deteriorating security situation and vaccine hesitancy, the author remains hopeful due to Haiti's resilience, vibrant civil society, and progress in disaster risk management. The World Bank's efforts, in collaboration with the Haitian government and international partners, aim to address the country's long-standing challenges and drive prosperity.

The article discusses the cultural significance of charrerias, a form of rodeo that is deeply rooted in Mexican tradition. These events feature men and women dressed in traditional attire, showcasing a variety of skills on horseback. Charrerias are particularly common in the North West of Mexico and have gained popularity in Los Angeles among the Mexican expatriate community since the early 2000s. They serve as a means for Mexican expats to connect with and celebrate their cultural heritage.

The article discusses the economic recovery in Latin America and the Caribbean two years after the pandemic began. It highlights the increase in poverty and inequality, partial employment recovery, and the exhaustion of government fiscal reserves. The region's GDP rose by 6.7 percent in 2021, but challenges remain. The article emphasizes the importance of continuing COVID-19 vaccination efforts, with varying rates across countries. It outlines four key areas for sustainable growth: improving productivity and job creation, addressing high levels of debt, reversing educational losses from the pandemic, and acting on climate change. The World Bank's role in supporting these initiatives across the region, including digital inclusion, educational programs, and environmentally sustainable projects, is also mentioned.

Two years into the pandemic, 2022 begins with hopeful signs of economic recovery in Latin America and the Caribbean after the worst downturn in over a century. Poverty and inequality have increased, and employment has only partially recovered. The region's GDP grew by 6.7 percent in 2021, but challenges remain, including consolidating recovery and ensuring growth benefits those in need. Vaccination against COVID-19 is crucial, with significant disparities among countries. Key areas for focus include improving firm productivity, addressing high debt levels, reversing educational losses from the pandemic, and acting on climate change. The World Bank is assisting with various initiatives, including digital transformation, debt reduction, educational programs, and sustainable environmental management.

The article discusses the reopening of the U.S.-Mexico border to non-essential travelers who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The authors, who are leaders in cross-border organizations, highlight the challenges faced during the border closure, including long wait times, economic impacts on San Diego and Tijuana, and public health risks. They advocate for a strategic restructuring of the cross-border ecosystem, emphasizing the need for improved border processing, better cooperation from Mexico, and a focus on public health. The article also touches on the potential for nearshoring to benefit the CaliBaja region, suggesting that industries such as aerospace, electric vehicles, and biotech could thrive with proper planning and binational cooperation.

The article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on poverty in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), highlighting the region's increased vulnerability and the need for resilience. It notes that global poverty rose last year for the first time since 1998, with LAC experiencing a significant economic contraction. The World Bank's annual country classifications showed that two LAC countries, Panama and Belize, dropped to a lower income category. The article emphasizes the importance of vaccine access, social protection systems, and collaboration with the private sector to facilitate recovery. It also mentions the role of multilateral organizations like the World Bank in providing assistance and the challenges posed by societal frustration and upcoming elections in the region.

Latin America and the Caribbean have been severely impacted by the pandemic, experiencing the largest economic contraction in over a century. A partial recovery is expected in 2021, but the region faces the challenge of overcoming pre-pandemic low growth rates. Poverty has increased, the middle class has shrunk, and public spending has risen to mitigate the pandemic's impact. The World Bank has provided $14.8 billion to support public sectors and facilitate recovery. Key reforms in productivity, employment, human capital accumulation, and sustainable growth are urgent. Digitalization is also highlighted as a transformative force that requires investment in connectivity infrastructure and appropriate regulations.

The article discusses Jamaica's financial strategies to mitigate the economic impact of natural disasters, particularly hurricanes. It highlights the country's collaboration with the World Bank and the use of innovative financial instruments such as catastrophe (CAT) bonds and insurance from the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility (CCRIF). These measures are designed to provide quick financial relief for rebuilding infrastructure after disasters. The World Bank has issued a CAT bond that offers Jamaica $185 million in coverage for three hurricane seasons, with a pay-out mechanism based on storm intensity and location. The article emphasizes the importance of pre-arranged financing and insurance to improve fiscal resilience and potentially lower funding costs for countries like Jamaica that are prone to natural disasters.

Ecuador will celebrate 191 years of independence on May 13, marking the separation from the Gran Colombia in 1830. The new president, Guillermo Lasso, is set to take office on the 24th, facing challenges such as the pandemic, corruption, unemployment, and public debt. Public attention is on the formation of Lasso's Cabinet, which aims to demonstrate national unity and gender parity. The current Assembly is discredited due to corruption scandals, and the new Assembly members are negotiating leadership positions, with no single party having a decisive majority. An agreement between ID and Pachakutik, holding 45 seats, has been made to act in a bloc, with the condition of Assembly presidency. Lasso advocates for a legislative majority to support the government's action program.

Investigations by the Prosecutor's Office into alleged irregularities in the acquisition of COVID-19 tests by the Municipality of Quito led to a raid on Mayor Jorge Yunda's home and the seizure of phones, including one belonging to his son Sebastián Yunda. Chats on the phone suggest involvement in organized crime and corruption. Sebastián, a reggaeton musician, fled to Panama following the scandal. He is accused of accepting commissions and gifts from businessmen in exchange for influence in illicit contract dealings. Calls for Mayor Yunda's resignation have been made by council members, but he has stated he will serve until the end of his term, denying responsibility for his adult son's actions and suggesting political persecution. Meanwhile, tests acquired from South Korea by the Municipality have been found to be substandard by prestigious scientific organizations, leading to legal action against several officials and causing public outrage and economic damage.