More than 360,000 Haitians have been displaced within their country due to violence and chaos in Port-au-Prince, according to the UN. Those with financial means are fleeing the country, while others are struggling to survive. The report comes from Cap-Haitien in northern Haiti.

Haiti is engulfed in gang violence, and Caribbean leaders announced that the key transitional council, responsible for selecting an interim leader for Haiti, is nearly complete. Concurrently, many Haitians are facing hunger due to the ongoing instability in the country.

The situation in Haiti is deteriorating with increasing violence and a deepening humanitarian crisis. The international community is urgently seeking a peaceful resolution as Port-au-Prince falls into chaos. Dan Collyns reports from the Dominican Republic's border with Haiti.

Tensions escalate between the Dominican Republic and Haiti as the worsening humanitarian crisis compels thousands of Haitians to cross the border in search of safety from violence and hunger. The situation at the border, particularly in Dajabón, highlights the severe challenges faced by Haitians and the growing strain on Dominican Republic resources.

Ecuador's president, Daniel Noboa, declared the country 'at war' with drug gangs following a surge in violence, including attacks on a TV station and police officers. Noboa issued a decree labeling nearly two dozen gangs as terrorist groups and authorized the military to neutralize crime factions. His election promise to crack down on violent crime has led to retaliations from drug gangs, turning Ecuador into a transit state for cocaine and causing thousands to flee the country.

Ecuador has experienced a dramatic surge in violence and crime, primarily driven by drug trafficking and gang activities. President Daniel Noboa has declared a state of 'internal armed conflict' and authorized the military to combat drug trafficking gangs. The situation escalated following the prison escape of notorious gang leaders Adolfo Macías and Fabricio Colón, leading to widespread attacks and chaos. The violence has been exacerbated by competition among local gangs, influenced by Mexican and Balkan cartels. The Ecuadorian state is now facing significant challenges in restoring order and security.

An armed gang stormed the TC Televisión network in Guayaquil, Ecuador, during a live broadcast, leading to the arrest of the gunmen by police special forces. President Daniel Noboa declared a state of 'internal armed conflict' as criminal groups launched attacks across Ecuador, including violence in prisons and the escape of gang leader Adolfo Macías. Peru declared an emergency along its border with Ecuador. Noboa designated 20 drug trafficking gangs as terrorist groups and authorized military action against them. The president also declared a state of emergency to regain control of prisons and plans a referendum on crime-fighting measures.

Ecuador's president has declared a state of internal armed conflict following an armed gang's attack on a TV station, which occurred a day after a general state of emergency was declared due to the prison escape of a dangerous gang leader. All gunmen involved in the TV station attack have been arrested, according to the police commander.

Alberto Fujimori, the former president of Peru, was released from jail on Wednesday following a humanitarian pardon granted by the country's highest court, despite attempts to block the pardon.

Peru's constitutional court has ordered the release of former president Alberto Fujimori, who has been serving a 25-year sentence for corruption and human rights abuses. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights has urged Peru to refrain from executing this order, citing international law. Fujimori's legacy remains divisive, with supporters praising his economic reforms and opponents condemning his authoritarian rule. The decision now lies with President Dina Boluarte's government, which faces its own human rights accusations. The outcome will test Peru's commitment to international norms amid political pressure from a powerful congressional coalition.

A UN report highlights the worsening situation in Haiti, where spreading gang violence is exacerbating an already dire food crisis. The Caribbean nation, already suffering from poverty and lawlessness, faces further threats to its food supplies due to the escalating violence.

Between 2019 and 2020, the Peruvian government launched 'Operation Mercury' to combat illegal gold mining in Madre de Dios, achieving significant short-term success. However, enforcement waned due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing miners to return. The operation initially reduced deforestation and illegal mining activities, but these gains were offset by increased legal mining activities, which continued to pose environmental risks. The study highlights the importance of sustained enforcement and government presence to control illegal mining and its associated crimes.

Daniel Noboa, at 35, was sworn in as Ecuador's youngest-ever president in Quito, facing challenges such as a troubled economy and rising violent crime.

Daniel Noboa, at 35, was sworn in as Ecuador's youngest-ever president in Quito, following his victory last month. He faces significant challenges, including a troubled economy and rising violent crime.

The A’i Cofán Indigenous guard in Ecuador's Amazon is mobilizing against illegal gold mining, which threatens their land and environment. Equipped with modern technology, they patrol their territory, evict miners, and have achieved significant legal victories, including the suspension of mining concessions. Despite the Ecuadorian government's insufficient enforcement and corruption issues, the A’i Cofán continue to protect their sacred land, emphasizing the importance of unity and traditional knowledge. The article highlights the broader implications of illegal mining on the environment and Indigenous rights.

Peru is set to take on the year-long rotating leadership of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) at the end of November 2023. The country views this opportunity as a means to bolster its struggling economy and will host the annual meeting of APEC's 21 members the following year.

Cerro de Pasco, a city in central Peru, has been severely affected by decades of mining, leading to extreme contamination with heavy metals. The Raúl Rojas mining pit, operated by Volcan Compañía Minera S.A.A. and partly owned by Glencore, has caused significant health issues among the 80,000 residents, including high levels of lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium in the environment. Despite multiple reports and fines, the mining company and authorities have been largely unresponsive. Local communities, particularly children, suffer from severe health problems, and there is a call for more effective governmental action and corporate responsibility.

Heavily armed gangsters stormed the TC Televisión studio in Guayaquil, Ecuador, during a live broadcast, leading President Daniel Noboa to declare a state of 'internal armed conflict.' Police arrested 13 gunmen, and the incident is part of a broader wave of violence linked to drug trafficking gangs. Noboa has designated 20 gangs as terrorist groups and authorized military action. The violence has also affected prisons, with multiple prison guards and police officers being kidnapped. Peru has declared an emergency along its northern border with Ecuador in response to the escalating violence.

Ecuador has declared a state of emergency following the disappearance of Adolfo Macías, a notorious drug trafficker, from a Guayaquil prison. President Daniel Noboa announced the emergency measures, emphasizing a crackdown on organized crime. The escape has led to hostage situations in multiple prisons, with guards being held by gang members. The government is investigating the incident as a potential prison break, with two officials detained as suspects. The crisis highlights ongoing issues with violence and organized crime in Ecuador, exacerbated by the influence of gangs like Los Choneros and their connections to the Sinaloa Cartel.

Ecuador declared a state of emergency following the disappearance of Adolfo Macías, a notorious drug lord, from a Guayaquil prison. President Daniel Noboa announced a 60-day state of exception and instructed the military and police to take action. The crisis has seen prison guards taken hostage amid widespread prison unrest. Authorities are investigating the escape, with two officials detained as suspects. The incident underscores the ongoing struggle against organized crime in Ecuador, with Los Choneros, linked to the Sinaloa Cartel, at the center of the violence.

Lucha Reyes, known as Peru's Golden Black Woman, is being celebrated 50 years after her death for her contributions to música criolla and her influence on Afro-Peruvian women. Peru's culture ministry posthumously recognized her, and a Madrid-based record label released a collection of her songs. Despite a difficult life marked by poverty, abuse, and health issues, Reyes became a beloved figure in Peru, comparable to Edith Piaf. Her legacy continues to inspire, including within Peru's LGBTQ community, and efforts are being made to give her global recognition.

In the Peruvian town of Pozuzo, descendants of 19th-century Austrian and German settlers maintain their cultural heritage through events like Pozuzofest, which features traditional dances, music, and cuisine. The town, which was isolated for over a century, has seen a resurgence in tourism post-Covid-19, boosting its economy and preserving its unique traditions. The settlers originally came to Peru to escape economic hardship in Europe, invited by President Ramón Castilla. Pozuzo's customs, some of which have adapted to local realities, continue to thrive, supported by the community's strong sense of identity and pride.

Ecuador is experiencing a severe wave of violence attributed to drug gangs, leading President Daniel Noboa to declare a state of emergency and designate gangs as terrorist groups. The violence includes hostage situations, attacks on police, and public fear, prompting military action and international concern. Noboa's plans to build high-security prisons and deport foreign prisoners aim to curb the crisis, while neighboring countries like Peru and Colombia are increasing border security in response.

The ombudsman’s office in Bolivia condemned threats against a 10-year-old rape victim and her family after teachers and school staff attempted to prevent the arrest of the alleged rapist, a 39-year-old headteacher. The case, which resulted in the girl's pregnancy, underscores Bolivia's high rates of sexual violence and impunity. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for justice from various organizations, including Equality Now and Comunidad de Derechos Humanos Bolivia. The article highlights the broader issue of sexual violence against minors in Bolivia and the need for systemic change to protect victims.

Businessman Daniel Noboa has won Ecuador's presidential election with about 52 percent of the vote, narrowly defeating leftist lawyer Luisa González.

Daniel Noboa, heir to a banana fortune, won Ecuador's presidential election, becoming the youngest president at 35. Noboa secured 52.29% of the vote against leftist lawyer Luisa González's 47.71%. Noboa's campaign focused on tackling violent crime, creating jobs, and attracting foreign investment. The election occurred amid a surge in violent crime linked to drug trafficking. Noboa will govern for 17 months, completing the term of outgoing president Guillermo Lasso. The campaign was marked by significant violence, including the assassination of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio.

Ecuador faces a critical presidential election amid escalating violent crime and drug trafficking. The candidates, Daniel Noboa and Luisa González, propose militarizing ports and airports to combat drug trafficking. The assassination of anti-corruption candidate Fernando Villavicencio and the rise in murders, particularly in Guayaquil, underscore the nation's descent into violence. Criminal gangs, including Los Choneros and Mexican cartels, exert significant influence, complicating efforts by the government and law enforcement. The article highlights the pervasive fear and instability affecting daily life in Ecuador.

Ecuador is experiencing a severe security crisis marked by a surge in drug trafficking-related violence and prison breaks. President Daniel Noboa has declared a state of 'internal armed conflict' and authorized the military to combat crime factions. The escape of notorious gang leaders Adolfo Macías and Fabricio Colón has exacerbated the situation, leading to widespread violence and fear among citizens. The country's strategic position and poor security controls have made it a hub for cocaine trafficking, further fueling the violence. The government's response includes plans to militarize prisons and construct maximum security facilities, drawing inspiration from El Salvador's approach.

Haitian citizens are scrambling to secure food and supplies at the Dominican Republic border amid tightened security and surging gang violence in Haiti. The humanitarian crisis is worsening, with millions facing acute food insecurity and the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The Dominican Republic has reinforced border security to prevent escaped prisoners from entering, while historical tensions between the two nations persist. The situation is exacerbated by gang violence, political instability, and blockades affecting food and medical supplies.

Ecuador is grappling with the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, a staunch anti-corruption journalist who fought against drug cartels. His death highlights the country's escalating violence and political instability, drawing comparisons to Colombia's past. The Ecuadorian government has arrested six foreign suspects linked to organized crime. Villavicencio's supporters and colleagues vow to continue his fight against corruption. The article underscores the deep penetration of drug cartels into Ecuadorian politics and security forces, with calls for international assistance to address the crisis.

Ecuador is grappling with a severe increase in drug gang violence, particularly in Guayaquil, driven by organized crime factions and powerful Mexican cartels. The violence has led to thousands of disappearances, kidnappings, and extortion, with the country experiencing record numbers of violent deaths. The upcoming runoff election between Luisa González and Daniel Noboa highlights the political stakes, as both candidates promise to address the crisis. The UN has called for urgent action to tackle poverty, which is exacerbating the situation, leading many Ecuadorians to flee the country.

The Esse Ejja community in Bolivia, reliant on the Beni river for their daily fish consumption, is facing severe health risks due to mercury contamination from booming alluvial gold mining. Mercury, essential for this mining practice, is poisoning the fish and, consequently, the community members who consume them.

A proposed legislation by rightwing lawmaker Adriana Tudela to revitalize Peru's film industry by capping state subsidies has sparked outrage among Peruvian filmmakers for potentially harming Indigenous and regional cinema. The bill is seen as an attack on cultural diversity and has been dismissed by Peru's Ministry of Culture as unviable. Filmmakers argue that government support is crucial for maintaining cultural identity and point to the success of Indigenous films such as Retablo and Wiñaypacha. The controversy arose after the British comedy Paddington in Peru chose Colombia for filming due to Peru's bureaucratic barriers, despite the movie's narrative returning to Peru.

Ecuador has experienced a rapid and severe decline in public safety, becoming one of the most dangerous countries in Latin America due to narcotrafficking-related violence. President Daniel Noboa has declared a state of 'internal armed conflict,' authorizing the military to combat criminal gangs. The recent escape of notorious criminals has exacerbated the violence, leading to widespread fear among Ecuadorians. The government's hardline measures, inspired by El Salvador's approach, aim to regain control but have also led to increased criminal activity. The situation has driven many Ecuadorians to flee the country, seeking safety elsewhere.

Heavily armed gangsters stormed the TC Televisión studio in Guayaquil, Ecuador, during a live broadcast, leading President Daniel Noboa to declare a state of 'internal armed conflict.' Police arrested 13 gunmen, and the incident is part of a broader wave of violence linked to organized crime and prison unrest. Noboa has designated 20 drug trafficking gangs as terrorist groups and authorized military action. The violence follows the escape of gang leader Adolfo Macías, prompting a state of emergency and increased security measures, including a proposed referendum to strengthen crime-fighting laws.

Ecuador is grappling with escalating violence driven by drug gangs, with the port city of Guayaquil becoming a hotspot for disappearances and gangland killings. The country is facing a surge in violent deaths, with 4,600 reported in 2022 and 3,568 in the first half of 2023. The upcoming presidential runoff between Luisa González and Daniel Noboa highlights the political stakes, as both candidates promise to tackle the narco-terrorism crisis. The United Nations has called for urgent action to address poverty, which is fueling gang recruitment and driving mass emigration. The situation remains dire, with the police and armed forces struggling to combat the powerful drug cartels.

Peru is constructing a new megaport with assistance from the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative. The Chinese state-owned company Cosco Shipping has announced that the megaport, located 60 kilometers north of Lima, is nearly halfway through its construction and aims to commence operations by the end of 2024.

As Ecuador approaches a presidential runoff election on October 15, the primary concern for citizens is addressing the escalating violence and criminality linked to drug trafficking. The situation, particularly in the largest city and main port, Guayaquil, has deteriorated significantly in recent years.

Ecuador's presidential election did not yield a clear winner, leading to a runoff in October. The runoff will feature Luisa Gonzalez, a leftist and protege of former president Rafael Correa, against Daniel Noboa, a conservative businessman and son of one of Ecuador's wealthiest individuals. The first round of voting saw Gonzalez and Noboa finishing in first and second place, respectively.

Ecuadorians voted in a historic referendum to halt new oil drilling in the Yasuní national park, a biodiverse Amazonian region, with 58% in favor. This decision, which also blocks gold mining in the Chocó Andino, is seen as a significant victory for environmental and Indigenous rights. The referendum mandates the Ecuadorian government to cease operations and dismantle infrastructure within a year. The move is a setback for the fossil fuel industry and may lead to economic austerity, but it underscores a national consensus on protecting nature and Indigenous communities.

Luisa González, a leftwing candidate loyal to former president Rafael Correa, and centrist Daniel Noboa will face off in the second round of Ecuador's presidential election. The election, marked by a security crisis following the assassination of candidate Fernando Villavicencio, highlights the country's struggle with violence and economic challenges. González leads with 33% of the votes, while Noboa follows with 23%. The run-off will focus on contrasting economic models, with González representing 'Correismo' and Noboa advocating for market openness. The election also saw significant support for Correa's Citizens’ Revolution party in the legislature and approval of referendums to halt oil drilling and mining in sensitive areas.

Luisa González, a protege of former president Rafael Correa, and Daniel Noboa, son of a wealthy businessman, will face off in Ecuador's presidential runoff election in October. The first round of voting did not produce a clear winner, with González leading with over 33% and Noboa at 24%. The election has been marked by political violence, including the assassination of candidate Fernando Villavicencio. González is seen as Correa's successor, while Noboa represents business interests. The election saw high voter turnout amid rising crime and economic challenges, with significant security measures in place. Cyber-attacks targeted the electronic voting system for expatriates but did not affect the vote count.

Luisa González, a protege of former leftist president Rafael Correa, will face Daniel Noboa, son of a prominent businessman, in Ecuador's runoff presidential election in October. The election, marked by political violence including the assassination of candidate Fernando Villavicencio, saw González leading with 33% and Noboa with 24% of the votes. The runoff is necessary as no candidate secured the required majority. The election was conducted peacefully despite cyber-attacks traced to multiple countries. The new president will complete the term of outgoing president Guillermo Lasso amid rising crime and economic challenges.

Ecuadorians have voted in a referendum to prohibit new oil wells in the Yasuní National Park, preserving the region's biodiversity and Indigenous communities. With over 58% in favor, the decision prevents the extraction of approximately 726 million barrels of oil. The referendum also resulted in a ban on gold mining in the Chocó Andino near Quito. Indigenous leaders and activists celebrated the outcome as a victory for nature and climate action. The state oil company, Petroecuador, will be significantly impacted, as it must cease operations and remove infrastructure within a year. This event marks a significant stance by Ecuador against resource extraction for environmental protection.

Ecuadorians are voting for a new president amid heightened tensions following the assassination of a presidential candidate less than two weeks before the election. Eight candidates have committed to enhancing security and combating crime in response to a surge in drug cartel violence in the country. Dan Collyns reports from Quito.

Ecuadorians face a critical referendum to decide on halting oil drilling in the Yasuní ITT oilfield, located in a biodiverse Amazon national park and home to Indigenous communities. Amidst economic challenges and a recent presidential candidate assassination, the vote also includes a local referendum in Quito on mining. The country's reliance on oil has been questioned, with activists and Indigenous leaders advocating for a transition to sustainable practices. The outcome could influence Ecuador's environmental and economic future.

Ecuador faces a critical referendum to halt oil drilling in the biodiverse Yasuní National Park, home to the Waorani people and other indigenous communities. Amid economic challenges and a recent credit downgrade by Fitch, the vote represents a conflict between environmental conservation and the country's reliance on oil revenue. Indigenous leaders and activists, such as Nemonte Nenquimo and Patricia Gualinga, advocate for a 'yes' vote to protect the environment and transition away from fossil fuels. The country has a history of oil spills, including a protracted legal battle with Chevron, and indigenous communities have suffered from poverty and environmental degradation despite oil wealth.

In Lima, Peru, a retired dancer is working to make ballet accessible to girls from families who cannot afford classes and to those who were previously considered unable to dance.

Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio, known for his fight against drug cartels and corruption, was assassinated, marking the country's first political assassination. The incident has raised concerns about the influence of organized crime in politics and the government's ability to protect its citizens. Ecuador's homicide rate has increased significantly, drawing comparisons to Colombia in the 1980s. Villavicencio, a former journalist and whistleblower, had made enemies in various sectors, including drug gangs and the public sector. The US has criticized Ecuador's judiciary for corruption, and the country is at risk of becoming a narco-state. The upcoming election presents challenges for the next administration to address the security crisis with international support.

The article discusses the efforts of Dutch historian Ronald Elward and Peruvian geneticist Ricardo Fujita to trace the noble Inca bloodlines to the modern descendants of Atahualpa and his kin in Peru. Elward has examined historical records and public documents in Cusco to identify 25 royal Inca families and their descendants. Fujita, with support from National Geographic's Genographic Project, has found genetic links between individuals claiming descent from Huayna Capac and indigenous populations near Lake Titicaca. The research aims to reconstruct the history of the Inca people, which has not been recorded in writing but is believed to be preserved in the DNA of their descendants. The article also touches on the cultural pride of the Inca descendants and the resurgence of interest in the Quechua language and heritage.