The article discusses the critical role of private sector investment in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, emphasizing the need for $3 trillion in annual investments by 2050. It highlights the World Bank Group's initiative in launching the Climate Toolkits for Infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), which are designed to help translate Paris Agreement commitments into actionable, bankable projects. The toolkits, which include an Umbrella Toolkit and five sector-specific versions, provide a structured approach to developing low-carbon and resilient infrastructure, particularly in emerging market and developing economies (EMDEs). They cover various phases of the PPP life cycle, from project identification to tendering, and offer guidance on aligning investments with climate objectives, assessing greenhouse gas emissions, evaluating climate risks, and identifying financing options. The article encourages countries to utilize these toolkits to advance climate action and develop sustainable infrastructure.

In Panama, the approval of a mining contract with Minera Panamá, a subsidiary of Canada's First Quantum Minerals, has sparked widespread social protests. The contract allows for copper extraction in a protected area, raising environmental and sovereignty concerns. The government, led by President Laurentino Cortizo, has been criticized for rushing the law and for its potential economic and environmental impacts. The protests have been joined by various sectors, including workers, teachers, doctors, religious leaders, and environmentalists. The situation has led to food, medicine, and fuel shortages in some regions, and the government has proposed a referendum to decide on the law's future. The crisis is expected to influence the upcoming elections, with the mining issue becoming central to political discourse.

The episode discusses the plight of Dominicans of Haitian descent who have been stripped of their nationality due to a 2013 ruling by the Dominican Republic's Constitutional Tribunal. The ruling retroactively denationalized individuals born to foreign parents since 1929, leaving them stateless and without basic rights. Despite international condemnation and a subsequent law aimed at rectifying the situation, many affected individuals remain in legal limbo. The current government under President Luis Abinader has not shown willingness to address the issue, and there has been an increase in detentions and deportations of those without proper documentation. The narrative also touches on the historical tensions between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, as well as the rise of nationalist and anti-Haitian sentiments.

The Yasuní National Park in Ecuador, known for its immense biodiversity and indigenous communities, faces the threat of oil extraction. Despite a decade-long struggle by the Yasunidos collective and a popular referendum where 59% voted against oil exploitation in the Yasuní-ITT block, President Guillermo Lasso has indicated reluctance to halt operations. The situation reveals the tension between economic interests and environmental conservation, as well as the government's disregard for the popular will and indigenous rights. The Yasuní case is a significant example of the challenges in transitioning to a post-oil economy and addressing climate change.

The podcast episode reflects on the 50th anniversary of the Chilean military coup, focusing on the experiences of Pedro Blaset Castro, a former navy member who opposed the coup. It discusses the ongoing struggle for justice by the group of constitutionalist sailors who were tortured and the societal divisions that persist in Chile, with a growing number of citizens justifying the dictatorship. The episode also explores the political climate in Chile, the rise of right-wing discourse, and the challenges of addressing the legacy of the dictatorship, including the search for the disappeared and the need for political consensus.

In Lagos de Moreno, Jalisco, Mexico, five friends between the ages of 19 and 22 disappeared after attending a local fair. Independent journalist Celia Espinoza, known for her human rights-focused reporting, became involved in publicizing the case. The municipality is notorious for disappearances, and the recent case has highlighted the issue of forced recruitment by drug cartels, particularly the Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación. The region's strategic location makes it a battleground for cartel territorial control. The disappearance of the young men has caused widespread concern and speculation that they may have been forced into a cartel. The case has received national and international media attention, and the response from authorities and the government has been criticized. The phenomenon of forced recruitment into cartels, where young men are kidnapped and trained to become cartel soldiers, is a known but underreported issue in Mexico.

Bernardo Arévalo, representing the left-wing Movimiento Semilla, won the Guatemalan presidential election, defeating Sandra Torres of the Unidad Nacional de la Esperanza (UNE). Arévalo's campaign focused on anti-corruption and garnered support from historically excluded groups, such as indigenous movements and the youth. His victory signifies a break from the politics that have governed Guatemala in recent decades. Despite a campaign of misinformation against him, Arévalo managed to clarify his positions and gain popularity. The election process faced challenges, including attempts to disqualify Movimiento Semilla, but the Corte Constitucional upheld the party's right to participate. The election results were validated by international observers, and Arévalo's presidency is expected to face challenges in combating endemic corruption and addressing the needs of a population where over 50% live in poverty.

Alejandra Sánchez Inzunza and José Luis Pardo, founders of Dromómanos, a journalistic project producer, were victims of bank fraud in Mexico, losing nearly $56,000 from their account. Despite their efforts, the bank refused to return the money, blaming them for the incident. This story reflects a broader issue in Latin America, where bank fraud is rampant and banks often fail to protect their customers. The episode discusses various types of cyber scams, such as phishing and pharming, and offers advice on how to protect oneself. It also touches on the power of banks and financial institutions, the challenges of regulatory bodies, and the experiences of other fraud victims. The episode concludes with the notion that while individuals can seek justice, the process is arduous and often discouraging, with banks typically knowing that many will give up.

The Tren de Aragua, originating from the Tocorón prison in Venezuela, has evolved from a prison gang to a multinational criminal organization with operations in eight Latin American countries. Led by Héctor Guerrero Flores, also known as Niño Guerrero, the group is involved in various illicit activities including drug trafficking, extortion, and human trafficking. The organization's expansion is partly due to Venezuela's economic crisis, which has led to internal migration and the search for more lucrative criminal opportunities. The Tren de Aragua's presence has been used by some South American countries as a pretext to stigmatize and criminalize migrants, particularly Venezuelans, despite the lack of evidence linking migrants to increased crime rates. Governments are urged to differentiate between organized crime and migration issues and to adapt their policies accordingly.

Thousands of Venezuelans participated in a significant anti-government protest in Caracas, driven by opposition leader Juan Guaidó and inspired by recent uprisings in South America, such as Bolivia's. The demonstration aimed to challenge President Nicolás Maduro's regime, which has been accused of election manipulation and leading the country into a severe crisis. Despite the presence of smaller-scale protests and U.S. sanctions, Maduro's government remains in power. The opposition, which has seen a decline in support, proposed a transition plan involving a 'State Council' leading to new elections, but negotiations have stalled. Maduro's government, affected by sanctions, seeks to resume talks, while the opposition demands a response to their offer. The article suggests that the Venezuelan military's support for the government is a significant factor in Maduro's endurance, contrasting with Bolivia's situation.

On January 8, 2023, supporters of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro stormed the Congress, the Federal Supreme Court, and the presidential palace in Brasilia, leading to the arrest of 1,500 people. The invasion followed Bolsonaro's loss to Lula da Silva in the presidential election, with claims of election fraud and calls for military intervention. The government responded firmly, denouncing the acts as terrorism. The event is seen as part of a new model of digital coup d'état, with tactics similar to those used by Donald Trump's supporters in the US Capitol riot. Bolsonaro, who is currently in Florida, condemned the looting but did not take further responsibility. The incident reflects the deep political and social divisions in Brazil, with a significant portion of the population still supporting Bolsonarismo.

The podcast episode discusses the recent heatwaves in the United States and Europe as direct consequences of the climate crisis, highlighting the increased frequency and intensity of such events. It emphasizes the need for both mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the 1.1-degree Celsius rise in global temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions. The episode also explores the impact of heatwaves on daily life, health, and economic activities, such as agriculture and energy consumption. It underscores the global nature of climate change impacts, including forest fires, deforestation, and climate migration, particularly in Latin America. The episode calls for systemic changes by governments and businesses, as well as individual actions, to combat climate change. It also discusses the psychological effects of climate change on people and the importance of positive communication to encourage action.

The podcast episode from El hilo, produced by Radio Ambulante Estudios and VICE News, delves into the intersection of women's soccer, feminism, and the Copa América. It features stories of young Argentine soccer players facing gender discrimination and the efforts of La Nuestra Fútbol Feminista, led by Mónica Santino, to create a space for women in soccer. The episode also discusses the broader context of women's soccer in Latin America, the challenges of professionalization, and the activism that has led to increased visibility and improvements in the sport. It includes insights from sports journalist Marion Reimers and historical perspectives from Ayelén Pujol and Amalia Flores, highlighting the ongoing struggle for equality and recognition in women's soccer.

In 2022, five journalists have been murdered in Mexico, adding to a list of 150 journalists killed since 2000, possibly linked to their work, according to Artículo 19. The episode of the podcast 'El hilo' from Radio Ambulante Studios and VICE News, hosted by Silvia Viñas and Eliezer Budasoff, discusses the dangers faced by journalists in Mexico, the most lethal country for the press. It features testimonies from colleagues of the murdered journalists, insights from Mexican journalist Marcela Turati, and criticism of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's response to the violence. The episode emphasizes the need for justice, better working conditions, and effective protection mechanisms for journalists.

Guayaquil, Ecuador, is experiencing a surge in violence, with homicides doubling from the previous year. The pandemic has exacerbated unemployment, contributing to the rise in crime. Drug trafficking has infiltrated neighborhoods, and disputes over territory have led to increased assassinations and violence. The government's response, including a state of emergency, has been criticized as insufficient. The situation is complicated by the presence of international drug cartels and the need for comprehensive strategies to address drug trafficking and social inequality.

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the shifts in family structure, fertility behavior, and household labor division from the Silent generation to the Millennials, using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics. Key findings include a downward shift in the wage-age profile for Millennial men, increased returns to college education, higher leisure levels for Millennials, a decline in women's housework hours, a retreat from marriage among less-educated individuals, rising divorce rates with a decrease in likelihood over time, and a potential drop in Millennials' completed fertility rate. The study also examines education trends, noting a significant increase in college graduation rates and a decrease in high school dropout rates, particularly among Blacks. The article explores the implications of these trends for labor market productivity and social security programs.

The article tells the story of Orlando Pimentel, a 53-year-old Venezuelan who migrated to Ecuador to escape the economic crisis in his homeland. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to reconsider his situation as he lost his job and faced a lockdown in Guayaquil, Ecuador. With hospitals overwhelmed, Orlando decided to return to Venezuela. The article describes the challenging journey he and other Venezuelans faced while trying to return home amid closed borders and the threat of infection. The story, which was originally reported for El Hilo, a Spanish-language news podcast, is recounted through real-time WhatsApp messages and covers the 1,300-mile trek across three countries, highlighting the difficulties and solidarity experienced along the way.

The article discusses the surge in COVID-19 cases in Venezuela, attributed in part to citizens returning from Colombia through illegal crossings without proper testing. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro blames these returnees for the spike in cases, while the opposition criticizes the government's handling of the situation, particularly the conditions in quarantine centers. Over 5 million Venezuelans have fled the country due to various crises, but the pandemic has forced many to return. Hospitals, especially in border states like Zulia, Táchira, and Apure, are overwhelmed, with shortages of staff, equipment, and basic supplies like running water and face masks. The official COVID-19 case and death counts are believed to be underreported due to limited testing and delayed results. There are also reports of healthcare workers being threatened with criminal charges if they do not work while sick. An agreement between Maduro's government and the opposition to coordinate relief efforts through the Pan American Health Organization is in progress, aiming to use frozen government funds to improve the situation.

The article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education in Venezuela, highlighting the shift to distance learning due to the strict lockdown imposed by Nicolás Maduro's government. It mentions the challenges faced by families, such as the lack of internet access for 53 percent of households and Venezuela's poor internet connectivity ranking. The story of Giovanna Mascetti, who has become a teacher to her daughters, is used to illustrate the situation. The article also touches on the broader issues of the country's healthcare system's vulnerabilities, the exodus of teachers due to low wages, and the efforts by organizations like Alimenta la Solidaridad to provide meals to children during the lockdown.

The article discusses the severe gasoline shortage in Caracas, Venezuela, highlighting the struggles of essential workers, particularly doctors, who are forced to wait in long lines for fuel due to the country's collapsed refineries and inability to import fuel because of US sanctions. Dr. Arturo Martínez and Dr. Alejandro Rodriguez share their experiences of the hardships they face, including the risk of exposure to the coronavirus while queuing for gas. The government's promise of preferential access to fuel for healthcare workers is criticized as ineffective. The article also touches on the broader economic crisis in Venezuela, with hyperinflation and a failing health system, and how the fuel shortages are exacerbating issues like food distribution, as exemplified by vendor Jesus Peña resorting to the black market for fuel at exorbitant prices. The situation is dire, with the pandemic adding to the country's challenges, and citizens like Peña are uncertain about the future.

Juan José Márquez, the uncle of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó, was detained in Venezuela under suspicious circumstances. Diosdado Cabello, a senior official in Nicolás Maduro's government, accused Márquez of carrying explosives, which his family denies. Guaidó, recognized by over 50 nations as Venezuela's legitimate leader, recently returned from an international trip despite a travel ban. The United Nations has reported on human rights abuses by Maduro's government. The Trump administration and other U.S. officials have warned Maduro against harming Guaidó or his family and demanded Márquez's release. Márquez's wife, Romina Botaro, reported his detention and the lack of communication from authorities. The opposition has also reported other detentions and harassment related to Guaidó's return to Venezuela.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó returned to Venezuela after a global tour, including a visit to the White House and meetings with European leaders. Despite a government travel ban, he was not detained upon arrival. Guaidó's trip aimed to garner international support against President Nicolás Maduro's regime. He was met with both support and hostility at the airport. The U.S. has warned Maduro against harming Guaidó, threatening significant consequences. Guaidó's trip has been symbolically successful, but he returns to a divided opposition and a government that has increased pressure on his allies. The U.S. has promised more sanctions against Maduro's government, which is accused of human rights violations and has led the country into a severe economic crisis.

In Venezuela, the conflict over the National Assembly escalated as pro-government forces attacked opposition lawmakers, hindering them from convening in the legislative palace. The government, led by President Nicolás Maduro, has been attempting to seize control of the assembly, which is the last democratic institution in the country. Opposition members, including Juan Guaidó, were forced to relocate their session after being physically barred from the building. The international community has condemned Maduro's actions. The National Assembly is crucial as it provides legitimacy to Guaidó and allows the opposition to manage Venezuelan assets abroad. Political analysts suggest that the government's strategy is to delegitimize the opposition and maintain control over the legislative process.

The article discusses the shift in Venezuela's economic policies under President Nicolás Maduro, who is moving away from socialist policies towards a more free-market approach. This has led to the deceleration of the country's hyperinflation and the restocking of previously empty store shelves, although at high prices. The article highlights the impact of the U.S. dollar's increased use in the Venezuelan economy, including the legal acceptance of dollar transactions and the influx of remittances from the Venezuelan diaspora. Despite some signs of economic improvement, particularly in the capital, Caracas, the article notes that the poorest Venezuelans are struggling more than ever, as they do not benefit from the dollarization and continue to face severe economic hardships.