America

The 2023 Human Rights Report praised Belize for upholding free press principles, noting its respect for freedom of expression and the independent press, though highlighting editorial ties to political parties and some self-censorship practices

Bolivian President Luis Arce accused foreign powers of trying to control Bolivia's natural resources, particularly lithium, by excluding the country from strategic communication route projects and not respecting historical Lithium agreements

Paleontologists in Chile discovered the fossilized remains of a unique marine reptile that lived 70 million years ago on a beach in central Chile

Tens of thousands of Colombians protested in multiple cities against President Gustavo Petro's proposed reforms; protesters are concerned about the health reform aimed at decreasing power from insurers and expanding access to public healthcare

Ecuador has approved a referendum to enhance security measures against organized crime, proposing military street patrols, criminal extradition, and increased prison terms

20 young people were honored with the Prime Minister's National Youth Excellence Awards 2023 for their achievements in various fields such as sports, agriculture, arts and culture, leadership, journalism/social media influencers and entrepreneurship

FAO and EU will help strengthen the capacity of institutions and companies involved in seed production and certification in Cuba through a project implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture in 8 municipalities aimed at increasing local production

Military spending of the Dominican Republic rose by 14% in response to increased violence in neighboring Haiti, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute

Costa Rican health authorities have intensified efforts to vaccinate children against measles, rubella, and mumps, aiming to close vaccination gaps and achieve 100% coverage, especially with over 88.000 children currently susceptible due to missing doses

Argentina has submitted a letter of intent to NATO, seeking to become a global partner to enhance military capabilities through multinational exercises and advanced technology, as well as join strategic discussions

Brazil's average per capita income rose by 11,5% last year, reaching a 12-year high, according to latest data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics

The Dominica High Court has ruled that Sections 14 and 16 of the Sexual Offenses Act, which punishes homosexual sex, are unconstitutional

Soufriere residents and visitors will benefit from free public Wi-Fi for the next five years in a key move to improve connectivity and digital access