Asunción, Paraguay's capital, offers a unique travel experience with its off-the-radar charm, friendly locals, and a renaissance in embracing its heritage. Key attractions include historic streets, innovative restaurants, and vibrant art galleries. The city boasts a mix of cultural sites, markets, and green spaces, making it an ideal weekend destination. Highlights include the New Paraguayan cuisine at Óga, the historic La Estación Central del Ferrocarril, and the vibrant nightlife at La Chispa. The article provides a detailed itinerary for a 36-hour visit, emphasizing the city's blend of tradition and modernity.

Asunción, Paraguay's capital, is often overlooked by tourists but offers a unique charm with its friendly locals and cultural renaissance. The city features a mix of historical sites, vibrant markets, and innovative culinary experiences. Key attractions include the riverfront La Costanera, the historic Estación Central del Ferrocarril, and the artistic POpore gallery. The article highlights the city's evolving food scene with restaurants like Óga and Pakuri, and the nightlife at Negroni Rooftop and Garage Sónico. Despite its troubled past, Asunción is depicted as a city worth exploring for its rich culture and welcoming atmosphere.

Armed police clashed with indigenous villagers in Paraguay, evicting the Hugua Po’i community from their homes. The eviction, part of a broader trend of rural displacements, highlights the severe inequality in land ownership and the environmental and spiritual significance of the land to indigenous peoples. Despite international commitments to end deforestation, agribusiness continues to encroach on Latin America's forests. Activists and researchers criticize the government's actions and the influence of large landowners on policy and law enforcement. Indigenous communities vow to continue their fight to reclaim ancestral lands.

The drying of Bolivia's Lake Poopó has devastated the local Urus-Muratos community, who have relied on the lake for fishing. The catastrophe is attributed to a combination of climate change, water withdrawals for irrigation, and pollution from nearby mines. The Bolivian government, under Evo Morales, has been criticized for blaming climate change exclusively and not addressing other contributing factors. Efforts to mitigate the damage have been insufficient, and the future of the Urus-Muratos community remains uncertain.

Chile is undertaking a national search for the 1,162 individuals still missing from the 1,469 who disappeared during General Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship from 1973 to 1990. This initiative comes as the country approaches the 50th anniversary of the coup that led to the military rule. President Gabriel Boric has signed a decree to formalize the search plan, emphasizing the state's duty to provide answers. The search is particularly poignant for families like that of Fernando Ortíz, a professor who was abducted in 1976 and whose remains were only recently identified.

Uruguay's pursuit of a trade deal with China, aimed at reducing tariffs and leveling the playing field for its beef exporters, has led to geopolitical tensions within the Mercosur trade bloc. President Luis Lacalle Pou's commitment to the deal has faced resistance from Brazil and Argentina, highlighting the challenges small nations face in navigating complex international trade dynamics.

Santiago Peña, a conservative economist, was elected as Paraguay's new president, maintaining the right-wing Colorado Party's control. Peña's victory, with 43% of the vote, signifies Paraguay's resistance to the leftward shift in Latin America. His election could complicate relations with the U.S. due to his ties with Horacio Cartes, a former president sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury for corruption. Peña's campaign focused on economic promises, despite Paraguay's significant poverty and underdevelopment. He aims to strengthen ties with Taiwan over China, impacting Paraguay's agricultural exports.

Santiago Peña, a conservative economist, has been elected as the new president of Paraguay, maintaining the right-wing Colorado Party's control over the country. Peña's victory, with 43% of the votes, comes amid a regional shift towards the left in Latin America. His election could complicate Paraguay's relationship with the United States, especially given the recent U.S. sanctions on his political mentor, former President Horacio Cartes, for corruption and links to Hezbollah.

Paraguay, a conservative nation in South America, is holding a presidential election that will test the region's recent leftward political shift. The Colorado Party's dominance is at risk as President Mario Abdo Benítez, who is ineligible for re-election due to term limits and is unpopular for his pandemic response, steps down. The election outcome will indicate whether the trend of electing leftist leaders in Latin America continues.

Paraguay's April 30 elections resulted in a significant victory for the Colorado Party, with Santiago Pena winning the presidency with 44% of the vote. Pena's campaign focused on job creation, public security, and reducing costs for the poor, supported by the party's strong voter mobilization and a divided opposition. The main opposition, led by Efrain Alegre of the Concertacion coalition, proposed various policy changes but was overshadowed by Alegre's anti-corruption stance.

Alejandro Astesiano, the chief bodyguard to Uruguay's center-right president Luis Lacalle Pou, was arrested for selling fake birth certificates to foreign citizens, predominantly Russians fleeing their country post-Ukraine invasion. The illegal operation, which dates back to 2013, escalated during Lacalle Pou's presidency, raising concerns about corruption in Uruguay.

A decade after the ousting of Paraguay's leftist president Fernando Lugo through a rapid parliamentary coup, the country's left has an opportunity to reclaim power in the upcoming 2023 elections. The conservative Colorado Party, which has dominated Paraguayan politics for decades, is currently weakened by internal conflicts. The opposition faces challenges such as overcoming structural obstacles and internal divisions. If successful, they could address issues like poverty, repression of activists, and environmental destruction. The article reflects on the violent history of Paraguay, the legacy of authoritarianism, and the structural weaknesses of the Paraguayan left while considering the potential for change in the political landscape.

Archaeologists in Arica, Chile, are struggling to preserve the Chinchorro mummies, the world's oldest known mummies, from the impacts of climate change. Unusual weather patterns in the Atacama Desert have exposed and damaged these ancient remains. Experts face the challenge of rescuing the mummies or focusing on those already excavated, as increasing humidity affects the mummies in collections. The recent UNESCO World Heritage status and the construction of a new museum may aid in their preservation. The Chinchorro culture, dating back to 5000 BC, is known for its elaborate mummification techniques and aesthetic value. Local residents feel a connection to the Chinchorro, but efforts to promote tourism are hindered by land disputes. The mayor of the local community hopes that Chile's constitutional reform will lead to better protection of the mummies, which are at risk of vanishing due to climate change.

A massive ash cloud from wildfires in Argentina has enveloped Asunción, Paraguay, causing severe air quality issues and visibility problems. The fires, driven by a severe drought and climate change, have devastated large areas in Argentina, including the Iberá wetlands. The Argentinian government has been criticized for its slow response, while volunteers and social media influencers have stepped in to provide support. The situation highlights the broader impacts of climate change and deforestation in the region.

Paraguay's new Chaco highway, part of the Bioceanic Corridor, poses significant threats to the Chaco forest and the Ayoreo people. Indigenous communities face increased deforestation, social marginalization, and cultural upheaval. The highway, supported by Paraguay's president Mario Abdo Benítez, aims to connect local economies with Asian markets but accelerates environmental destruction and endangers wildlife. Conservationists and indigenous leaders criticize the project, highlighting rushed consultations and the adverse impacts on traditional ways of life. The article underscores the broader implications of infrastructure development on indigenous rights and environmental sustainability.

A book by Brazilian historian Alfredo da Mota Menezes, recently published in Paraguay, challenges the long-held belief that Britain was a 'fourth ally' in the 19th-century War of the Triple Alliance, which involved Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay. The book, titled 'The War Is Ours: England Didn’t Cause the Paraguayan War,' argues that the conflict's causes were entirely regional, based on extensive research of British diplomatic correspondence. Despite the theory's popularity, which suggests British economic motives, historians like María Victoria Barrata and Ana Barreto Vallinoti support the book's findings. The narrative of British involvement persists, partly due to psychological reasons, offering a form of consolation for Paraguay. Parlasur has voted to create a commission to examine the conflict's 'crimes against humanity,' with some members still pointing to British influence.

Armed police evicted the Hugua Po’i indigenous community in Paraguay, destroying homes and crops claimed by a Mennonite soybean farmer. The incident underscores the severe land ownership inequality in Paraguay, where 2% of people own over 80% of farmland. Despite international agreements to protect indigenous lands and halt deforestation, rural evictions continue, exacerbating climate change. Activists and community members criticize the government's policies and the influence of agribusiness, vowing to reclaim their ancestral lands.

A high-ranking official from Bolivia's previous government planned to use U.S. mercenaries to overturn the results of the October 2020 election, aiming to prevent Luis Arce from assuming the presidency. The plot, which involved recruiting mercenaries to collaborate with Bolivian military and police units, was ultimately thwarted by internal disagreements and the decisive victory of Arce. The article details the involvement of various officials, including former Defense Minister Luis Fernando López and U.S. contractor Joe Pereira, and highlights the broader political context and historical tensions in Bolivia. The failed coup underscores ongoing instability and the potential for violence in the region.

A top official in Bolivia's outgoing government plotted to use U.S. mercenaries to prevent Luis Arce from assuming the presidency after his 2020 election victory. The plan, involving hundreds of mercenaries and support from elite Bolivian military units, was never executed due to internal disagreements and the overwhelming support for Arce. The plot highlights ongoing tensions and distrust within Bolivia's political and military landscape, particularly following the controversial ousting of former President Evo Morales in 2019. Key figures involved in the plot have either fled the country or been arrested on separate charges.

Paraguay's President Mario Abdo Benitez announced a successful operation against the Paraguayan People’s Army (EPP), claiming the deaths of two fighters. However, it was later revealed that the deceased were two 11-year-old Argentine girls, leading to international outcry and calls for an impartial investigation by the United Nations. The incident has put the Paraguayan government under scrutiny and highlighted the complexities of its fight against the EPP.

Protests in Bolivia have intensified as demonstrators demand the rescheduling of the repeatedly delayed presidential election. The protests, led by unions and groups allied with former president Evo Morales, have caused significant disruptions, including roadblocks that have hindered medical supplies amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The interim government, led by Jeanine Áñez, faces criticism for its handling of the crisis and accusations of political manipulation. The situation remains tense with calls for a definitive election date to stabilize the country.

Bolivia's initial success in controlling the coronavirus pandemic is at risk due to an underprepared health system, poverty, and political conflicts. Despite early lockdown measures, the country faces a severe health crisis with overwhelmed hospitals and a rising death toll. Political tensions and inadequate government response, including corruption and lack of medical supplies, have exacerbated the situation. Experts warn that without unified efforts, Bolivia could face a catastrophe similar to neighboring countries.

Mexican archaeologists are warning that significant budget cuts to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) will harm research into Mexico's pre-Columbian past and leave ancient sites vulnerable to looters. The 75% cut to INAH's operating budget is part of a broader austerity drive by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who is redirecting resources to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Critics argue that the cuts are unnecessary and will render INAH inoperative, affecting heritage sites, museums, and the search for missing people. The cuts come as new archaeological discoveries are being made, highlighting the importance of preserving Mexico's deep indigenous past.

Mexican archaeologists warn that severe budget cuts to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) will devastate research and preservation of the country's pre-Columbian heritage. The cuts, part of a broader austerity drive by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, are intended to redirect resources to healthcare amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Critics argue that the cuts will leave thousands of ancient sites vulnerable to looting and undermine Mexico's rich cultural heritage. The article highlights the tension between necessary healthcare funding and the preservation of cultural history.

In June 2020, a hostage situation occurred in the central Peruvian Andes when four subcontractors from Israeli telecoms firm Gilat were detained by the indigenous Chopcca community while attempting to fix an internet mast. The community, which had been observing a strict coronavirus lockdown, was influenced by conspiracy theories linking Covid-19 to 5G networks, spread via social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. Despite technological isolation, the Chopcca have access to the internet and use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Facebook Lite. The incident reflects broader issues of misinformation and mistrust towards external interventions in indigenous communities. After negotiations, the detained workers were released, and the community expressed a desire to use the internet for educational purposes.

Jeanine Áñez's interim presidency in Bolivia, initially intended to facilitate new elections, has been marked by militarism, religious zeal, and deepening political divisions. Critics argue that Áñez is using the coronavirus pandemic to extend her rule, postponing elections and leveraging the crisis to suppress opposition. Her administration has faced accusations of corruption, political persecution, and misuse of power, drawing comparisons to the tactics of her predecessor, Evo Morales. The situation underscores the need for constitutional reforms to limit presidential powers and strengthen democratic institutions in Bolivia.

The article discusses the growing Latin American community in the UK, highlighting their cultural contributions and the challenges they face due to lack of official recognition. Despite being one of the fastest-growing ethnic groups, Latin Americans in the UK are often rendered invisible by official policies and media portrayals. The article features insights from filmmaker Romano Pizzichini and activists like Krishmary Ramdhun, who emphasize the need for better representation and support. It also covers the socio-political struggles of Latin American hubs like the Latin Village and Elephant and Castle, which face threats from redevelopment plans. Community efforts, such as those by Save Latin Village and LatinXcluded, aim to secure recognition and rights for Latin Americans in the UK.

Archaeologists in Brazil's Amazon rainforest are facing significant challenges due to the policies of President Jair Bolsonaro, which include dramatic funding cuts and proposed legal changes that threaten archaeological research. Recent discoveries have revealed the complexity and scale of pre-Columbian Amazonian civilizations, but these findings are at risk as Bolsonaro's administration prioritizes development over preservation. The displacement of indigenous communities and the reduction in scientific funding could lead to a 'lost generation' of Brazilian scientists and the destruction of invaluable archaeological sites and local knowledge.

Evo Morales, Bolivia's longest-serving president, has been forced into exile following allegations of electoral fraud and a military suggestion to step down. His political journey began in El Chapare as a coca farmer and unionist, leading to his presidency in 2005. Morales' tenure saw significant economic growth and social reforms, but also accusations of authoritarianism, environmental damage, and vanity projects. Despite initial successes likened to Nelson Mandela's achievements, Morales' reluctance to groom a successor and constitutional manipulations to extend his term led to his downfall. The country now faces uncertainty, with interim leader Jeanine Áñez promising new elections amidst tensions and the dismantling of Morales' legacy.

Evo Morales, Bolivia's longest-serving president, has been forced into exile following allegations of electoral fraud and a military suggestion to step down. His political journey began in El Chapare, where he rose from a coca farmer to a union leader and eventually to the presidency. Morales' tenure saw significant economic growth and social reforms, but also accusations of authoritarianism, environmental damage, and vanity projects. Despite initial successes, his reluctance to groom a successor and attempts to extend his presidency led to widespread protests and a political crisis. The interim administration led by Jeanine Áñez has promised new elections amidst a tense and uncertain atmosphere.

In Chile, statues of Spanish conquistadors and other historical figures associated with the oppression of the indigenous Mapuche people have been toppled and desecrated amid widespread protests against inequality and state repression. The actions in cities like Temuco and Concepción symbolize a rejection of the official historical narrative and reflect the Mapuche's grievances over land ownership, pollution, and limited political representation. The unrest has reignited debates similar to those about Confederate monuments in the US and imperialist statues in the UK. Mapuche activists are pushing for constitutional changes to recognize Chile as a plurinational state, granting native peoples greater autonomy.

In 1817, Argentine general José de San Martín led a daring expedition across the Andes to liberate Chile and Peru from Spanish rule. His army, comprising a significant number of black soldiers, faced harsh conditions and fierce battles but achieved crucial victories that shifted the balance towards Latin American independence. The campaign, marked by the bravery of San Martín's diverse forces, played a pivotal role in the region's liberation. Despite their significant contributions, the valor of these black regiments has largely faded from popular memory, though recent migration trends in Chile are prompting a reevaluation of this multiracial history.

After over a decade of leftist rule, Uruguay faces corruption allegations, a weakened economy, and public disaffection. Rising fears over street crime contribute to a sense of crisis, with right-wing challengers gaining public attention. This scenario mirrors recent political shifts in Argentina, Chile, and Brazil, as Uruguay approaches its presidential and congressional elections in October 2019.

A Brazilian cartel boss, Marcelo Pinheiro, murdered an 18-year-old woman, Lidia Meza, in his high-security cell in Paraguay, sparking outrage and highlighting the country's issues with criminal impunity and corruption. Pinheiro, a leading figure in the Comando Vermelho, was attempting to avoid extradition to Brazil. The incident has raised fears of increased violence and corruption, especially with the unclear security policies of Brazil's president-elect, Jair Bolsonaro. Paraguay's president, Mario Abdo Benítez, ordered Pinheiro's extradition to Brazil, where he is now in solitary confinement.

Paraguay has experienced numerous corruption scandals, including bribery and misuse of public funds. Despite its poor ranking in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index, recent protests have targeted corrupt politicians. President Mario Abdo Benitez, from the center-right Colorado Party and son of a former dictator's lieutenant, has vowed to tackle corruption, though significant political challenges remain.

The article explores the rediscovery and ongoing archaeological work at Espíritu Pampa, the last capital of the Inca state of Vilcabamba. It highlights the efforts of archaeologists and explorers in uncovering the city's secrets, including its connections to the Wari culture. The site, which resisted Spanish conquest for decades, is now being studied and preserved, with plans for a new museum and road to improve accessibility. The findings reveal a rich history of Inca resistance, cultural integration, and the potential for further discoveries.

A collaborative project between archaeologists, historians, and astronomers, including Jimena Cruz, Dr Cecilia Sanhueza, and astronomers from ALMA and ESO, has uncovered the purpose of the saywas, ancient stone markers in Chile's Atacama desert. These markers, part of the Inca road network, align with the sun on solstices and other significant dates, serving calendrical, ritual, and political functions. The findings, which also involved interviews with retired llama herders and a survey of the saywas, confirm the markers' role in broadcasting the Inca's sacred power and mark borders between climatic zones. The research contributes to the appreciation of northern Chile's indigenous heritage.

El Alto, Bolivia, is gaining attention for its New Andean Architecture, a style characterized by vibrant colors and a mix of Asian, Andean, and Hollywood influences. Freddy Mamani, a local architect, is at the forefront of this movement, creating buildings that express the identity of Bolivia's indigenous majority. The style, which includes venues like Salon de Eventos Princípe Alexander, is seen as a physical demonstration of economic power by the city's upwardly-mobile residents. Gastón Gallardo, dean of the Higher University of San Andrés, views it as a decolonization of the symbolic order. The architecture is gaining international interest, with projects planned for cities like Paris and potentially New York, Miami, and California.

Paraguay elected Mario Abdo Benítez as president on April 22, with the Colorado Party maintaining power by a narrow margin. The election revealed the party's strong campaign strategies and the importance of unity, while also highlighting the inaccuracies of pre-election polls. The traditional two-party system showed signs of weakening, with new parties emerging and the possibility of constitutional reform in 2019. The article also discusses the role of the media in election coverage and the potential for increased negotiation and inclusivity in Paraguayan politics.

Mario Abdo Benítez, associated with Paraguay's former dictator Alfredo Stroessner, won the Paraguayan election, narrowly defeating Efraín Alegre of the centre-left Alianza coalition. Despite leading in polls, Benítez's victory margin was the smallest since the return to democracy. His campaign focused on family values and hinted at military service, while avoiding outright condemnation of the dictatorship. The election result indicates a potential end to the Colorado Party's long-standing dominance, with the opposition gaining more seats in congress. Activists, including Gerónimo Ayala, remain committed to challenging the conservative political establishment.

Paraguay is poised to elect Mario Abdo Benítez, son of a former secretary to dictator Alfredo Stroessner, as president, marking a shift to the right. The election underscores the country's struggle with its authoritarian past, with Abdo Benítez's rise supported by the church and rural Colorado base. Critics fear a return to dictatorship-era policies, while supporters view him as a continuation of the Colorado legacy. The article highlights the ongoing efforts to uncover the truth about desaparecidos and the mixed sentiments towards Abdo Benítez's potential presidency.

Gerónimo Ayala, a Mbyá Guaraní architect and activist, co-founded the Plurinational Indigenous Movement (MPIP) in 2014, Paraguay’s first autonomous indigenous political party. The MPIP aims to provide indigenous people with political representation and voice, addressing issues such as land rights, access to basic services, and environmental protection. Ayala emphasizes the importance of autonomy and working harmoniously across political ideologies. The movement seeks to ensure the application of laws and international treaties to improve the living conditions of indigenous communities in Paraguay.

In 2018, over 350 million voters in Latin America will elect new presidents in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Paraguay. The elections are expected to reflect a popular reaction against corruption rather than a left-right ideological swing. High-profile elections include Mexico's Andrés Manuel López Obrador leading polls despite controversial proposals, and Brazil's Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva leading despite corruption charges. Far-right Jair Bolsonaro is also gaining traction in Brazil. Issues like cleaner government, rejection of political elites, and peace processes are central to voters' concerns. Venezuela's elections are uncertain due to political repression, while Bolivia and Nicaragua face challenges to democracy. Chile's Sebastian Piñera faces a divided congress in his second term. The region continues to struggle with sluggish economies, corruption, security, and drug-related violence.

Julio Piñedo, the symbolic king of Bolivia's Afro-Bolivian community, marks his 10th anniversary as a cultural leader. Despite limited resources, his reign has helped elevate the visibility and rights of Afro-Bolivians, who have historically faced discrimination and neglect. The community, now recognized in Bolivia's constitution, continues to strive for greater representation and the preservation of their cultural heritage. Key figures like Zenaida Pérez and Jhony Zavala emphasize the importance of maintaining traditions and combating mental slavery. The Piñedo family, including Julio's grandson Rolando, remains committed to these goals despite challenges and political rivals.

The article reflects on the 50th anniversary of Che Guevara's death, examining his legacy and the current state of leftist movements in Latin America. It recounts Guevara's final days in Bolivia, his capture, and execution, and the subsequent impact on local communities. The piece also discusses the decline of leftist governments in the region, the shift in political attitudes, and the commercialization of Guevara's legacy through tourism. Despite the waning influence of leftist ideologies, some still view Guevara as a hero and his struggle as significant.

Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes appealed for calm following protests sparked by constitutional changes to allow his re-election. The unrest led to the storming of congress and the death of activist Rodrigo Quintana. Cartes offered condolences and promised justice, blaming business and media interests for the protests. Despite the turmoil, Cartes spoke at an investment conference, promoting Paraguay's economy. The opposition held a vigil for Quintana and called for Cartes' impeachment. The police officer responsible for Quintana's death claimed to have used rubber projectiles, and both the interior minister and police chief resigned. The mayor of Asunción urged the withdrawal of the re-election proposal, and international bodies called for dialogue. Further protests were expected.

Violent protests erupted in Asunción, Paraguay, following political maneuvers that could allow President Horacio Cartes to seek re-election in 2018, a move opposition parties have labeled a 'coup d'etat.' The unrest led to the storming of the country's congress and its subsequent arson. The situation escalated with the death of a 25-year-old activist, Rodrigo Quintana, during a police raid on the opposition Liberal party's headquarters. This incident has raised fears of further protests. The president of the Liberal party, Efraín Alegre, was also injured in the clashes. Over 200 protesters were detained, and the police force remains on high alert. The government, supported by the Colorado party, argues that the re-election policy has a significant mandate, while opponents are challenging the amendment in court.

Paraguayan President Horacio Cartes, backed by the rightwing Colorado Party, is attempting to amend the constitution to allow for his re-election in 2018, a move that has been met with significant opposition and concerns of a slide towards dictatorship. Despite public opposition, the Colorado Party and some opposition legislators are pushing procedural changes in the Senate to introduce a re-election bill. Opposition parties, dissident Colorados, and citizens are resisting, with allegations of bribery and fears of a 'coup d'etat'. The political crisis follows the 2012 impeachment of leftwing President Fernando Lugo, who now seems to support the amendment, potentially benefiting from it in future elections.

The Paraguay-Paraná hidrovía, stretching over 2,100 miles through South America, serves as a major commercial artery for agricultural produce, metals, manufactured goods, and fuel. Despite its environmental benefits over the region's substandard road network, the waterway faces challenges due to uneven regulations and costs imposed by the countries it connects, reflecting broader integration failures within Mercosur. The disparities in taxation and business conditions have led companies like Grupo Vessel to reposition in Paraguay, where the tax rate is significantly lower than in Argentina. The journey along the hidrovía reveals the disparities between the countries, with Paraguay's ports and river channels being less developed. However, there is evidence of slow but growing cooperation among the countries, with recent improvements in inter-governmental management and a shared interest in making the hidrovía more efficient. Despite the potential for increased shipping volumes, the route's management and development remain cautious, balancing economic interests with environmental concerns.

The Paraguay-Paraná hidrovía, a major commercial waterway in South America, faces challenges and opportunities as it connects Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay, and Bolivia. Despite historical rivalries and economic disparities, there is a growing trend of cooperation among these countries to improve the efficiency and profitability of the waterway. However, issues such as differing tax regulations, protectionism, and infrastructural limitations persist. The hidrovía's potential for increased trade and regional integration is significant, but achieving this requires careful management and sustained diplomatic efforts.

Second Lieutenant Nicolas Espejo serves at a remote Bolivian naval base, reflecting Bolivia's enduring maritime aspirations despite being landlocked. Bolivia's historical loss of its coastline to Chile in the War of the Pacific continues to shape its national identity and foreign policy. President Evo Morales is spearheading efforts to regain access to the sea, including a lawsuit at the International Court of Justice and the development of a new port at Puerto Busch with financial backing from the China Development Bank. The essay explores the deep-seated national sentiment and historical grievances that drive Bolivia's quest for maritime sovereignty.

The article by Laurence Blair, winner of the 2015 Bodley Head/FT essay prize, explores Bolivia's historical loss of its coastline to Chile during the War of the Pacific and its ongoing quest for sovereign access to the sea. It details the life of Second Lieutenant Nicolas Espejo at a remote Bolivian naval base and the country's efforts to build an international seaport at Puerto Busch with the help of a $7bn loan from the China Development Bank. The port is part of Bolivia's strategy to export resources and gain maritime access, despite being landlocked. The article also covers Bolivia's lawsuit against Chile at the International Court of Justice, seeking negotiations for sovereign access to the Pacific Ocean. The piece delves into the psychological impact of the territorial loss on Bolivia's national identity and the aggressive rhetoric in Bolivia-Chile relations. It concludes with Bolivia's hope that the new port will fulfill its maritime aspirations, symbolically challenging its landlocked status.

In Paraguay's remote north, the Paraguayan People’s Army (EPP), a Marxist rebel group, continues to evade authorities, engaging in kidnappings and killings. Despite significant military efforts, the government has been unable to dismantle the group, leading to suspicions of state complicity. The EPP finances itself through extortion and maintains a mix of Marxist-Leninist-Guevarist beliefs. The article highlights the ongoing struggle of rural communities against poverty and corruption, and the distrust of authorities that hampers efforts to combat the guerrillas.

An 11-year-old Paraguayan girl, known as Mainumby, gave birth after being denied an abortion despite being raped by her stepfather. The case has drawn significant attention to Paraguay's strict anti-abortion laws and the broader issue of child abuse in the region. Various organizations, including Amnesty International and the UN, have condemned the Paraguayan authorities for their handling of the case. The article also discusses the need for better reproductive health services and education to prevent such cases in the future.

Nueva Londres, a town in Paraguay, showcases a unique blend of British, Australian, and Paraguayan cultures. Founded in 1893 as Nueva Australia by families escaping economic hardship, the settlement aimed to create a utopian society. Over time, the town evolved with new settlers like the Smiths and Kennedys, who brought capitalism and integrated with local Paraguayan communities. The article highlights the town's rich history, the blending of cultures, and the efforts of descendants to preserve their heritage.

In Paraguay, a country plagued by underdevelopment and wealth inequality, many rural communities have turned to marijuana cultivation as a means of survival. The National Anti-Drugs Secretariat (Senad) conducts eradication operations to combat the drug trade, which is fueled by economic desperation and has led to significant violence and corruption. Political movements like the Partido Paraguay Pyahura advocate for small-scale farmers, while organizations like the World Wildlife Fund support sustainable farming practices as an alternative to drug cultivation. Despite efforts to modernize drug policy and address the root causes of narcotrafficking, the challenge remains significant, with deep-seated issues of poverty and land distribution at its core.