Between 2001 and 2022, Guaviare lost 409,000 hectares of forest, largely due to agricultural activities. Communities are now turning to sustainable production of Amazonian fruits as an alternative to deforestation. Asoproagro, in collaboration with Instituto Sinchi, has developed strategies to replace illicit crops and reduce deforestation. They recently obtained regulatory approval to market Sacha Inchi oil. The initiative has shown promise in providing economic alternatives and reducing reliance on deforestation and illicit crops. The project also involves agroforestry practices to ensure sustainable land use.

Colombia's new president, Gustavo Petro, inherits significant environmental challenges from his predecessor, Iván Duque, including high rates of deforestation and inadequate protection of natural areas. Despite Duque's efforts, such as planting 143 million trees and launching Operation Artemisa, experts and former officials criticize the effectiveness and impact of these policies. The Duque administration's anti-deforestation measures and protection of marine and terrestrial areas are questioned, with claims that many protections exist only on paper. The Petro government is expected to address these issues, with a focus on protecting environmental defenders, combating illegal mining, and improving the management of protected areas. Indigenous communities, recognized as key environmental protectors, seek better engagement and protection strategies from the new government.

Operation Artemis, launched by the Colombian government in 2019 to combat deforestation, has been deemed a failure. Despite substantial investment and military deployment, the operation only tackled 3% of the total deforested areas in Colombia's national parks over two years. The campaign led to the capture of 113 people and destruction of infrastructure, but deforestation rates continued to rise. Experts and community members criticized the operation for its ineffectiveness, lack of transparency, and human rights violations. The current administration under President Gustavo Petro has decided to shift the focus of the operation to address social, economic, and productive aspects for communities.

Venezuela has lost over 790,500 hectares of forest and 290,000 hectares of natural savannas between 2000 and 2020, primarily due to agricultural expansion, mining, and infrastructure development. The deforestation rate has accelerated since the creation of the Arco Minero by President Nicolás Maduro's government, with an annual expansion rate exceeding 75,000 hectares. The report by SOS Orinoco and Clima21, based on satellite imagery, projects that if current trends continue, the loss could reach 1.5 million hectares by 2030. Illegal mining, particularly in the Amazonian states of Bolívar and Amazonas, has been identified as a major driver of deforestation, affecting indigenous communities and biodiversity. The Venezuelan military's operations against illegal mining and their reforestation efforts have been criticized as ineffective and superficial. The lack of official data on deforestation and mercury contamination is also highlighted, with calls for regional and international cooperation to address these issues.

Indigenous Awa leaders from Nariño, Colombia, have sued the semi-state oil company Ecopetrol and its subsidiary Cenit, along with public entities ANLA and Corponariño, demanding a halt to oil spills and restoration of ecosystems affected by leaks from the Transandino Pipeline. Despite a judge rejecting their initial legal action, the Awa nation is appealing and may take their case to the Constitutional Court. The pipeline, owned by Ecopetrol and operated by Cenit, has had over 447 spills since 2014, with actual numbers likely higher since incidents began in 2009. The spills have contaminated water sources and sacred territories, affecting the Awa's access to water and food. Ecopetrol denies responsibility, blaming illegal armed groups for the spills and valve installations. The Awa are seeking environmental remediation, health studies, and the development of productive projects to sustain them amidst ongoing oil damage.

The chest feathers of birds can reveal mercury contamination, a significant issue in the Madre de Dios region of the Peruvian Amazon due to illegal gold mining. Scientists analyzed samples from 119 bird species, finding high mercury levels, especially in fish-eating birds. The study, involving multiple institutions, found a correlation between the size of mining ponds and mercury contamination. The research highlights the severe impact on bird populations, with some species showing the highest mercury levels recorded in South America. The findings underscore the broader environmental impact of mercury, affecting both fish-eating and insect-eating birds.

Wildlife in Colombia has been severely affected by forest fires, particularly in the regions of Bogotá, Cundinamarca, Santander, and Norte de Santander. Over 60 hectares in Bogotá and nearly 1400 hectares in Cundinamarca were burned. The fires also damaged national parks, including El Tuparro and El Cocuy. Environmental officials and veterinarians have been rescuing and treating injured wildlife and domestic animals. The Ministry of Environment has issued guidelines for animal management during fires. Species such as owls, lizards, and rodents have been rescued in Bogotá, while in Cundinamarca, some animals received veterinary care but not all survived. In Santander, a porcupine and two opossums were treated, and a harlequin frog was returned to its habitat. The fires have led to a significant loss of biodiversity, particularly affecting the páramo ecosystem, which is crucial for water supply. National parks have temporarily closed some areas to assess and manage the fire damage.

From 2023 to early 2024, 563 giant tortoises were reintroduced to their natural habitats in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador, through a joint initiative by social organizations and the Ecuadorian state. The conservation strategy involves collecting eggs, raising the tortoises in breeding centers, and returning them to the wild at ages four to eight to protect them from invasive species. The initiative has shown positive results, with increased populations of several tortoise subspecies, although challenges like invasive plants, climate change, and illegal trafficking remain. The program is supported by significant funding and logistical efforts, including the use of helicopters for transportation.

In 2023, over 58,000 indigenous people in Colombia were victims of violence, with significant impacts from armed groups, illegal mining, and coca cultivation. The Organización Nacional Indígena de Colombia (ONIC) and Indepaz report that 23,570 were affected by confinements, 3,022 by attacks, 634 by threats, and 45 were killed. The violence is exacerbated by the presence of the Ejército de Liberación Nacional, Fuerza Pública, and FARC dissidents. Indigenous leaders are particularly targeted, with 37 killed in 2023. The regions most affected include Putumayo, Chocó, Cauca, and the Amazon. The violence is linked to impunity, with investigations rarely reaching intellectual authors. The situation remains critical, with ongoing threats and violence against indigenous communities and leaders.

The Puinawai Reserve in southeastern Colombia is severely impacted by illegal gold and coltan mining, controlled by armed groups such as FARC dissidents and ELN. Satellite images from 2023 reveal significant deforestation. The illegal mining operations have led to environmental degradation, including deforestation and contamination of water sources. The minerals are trafficked through complex networks involving local and international actors. Despite efforts by authorities, the illegal activities continue, driven by high international demand for coltan, essential for electronic devices. The situation highlights the intersection of environmental destruction and organized crime in the Amazon region.

Park rangers in the Colombian Amazon face severe threats and violence from illegal armed groups, significantly hindering their ability to protect the region's biodiversity. The presence of FARC dissidents and other armed groups has led to increased deforestation and illegal activities, including drug trafficking and illegal mining. Despite efforts like Operation Artemis, the safety of park rangers remains compromised, with many areas becoming inaccessible. The article highlights the need for better governance, increased funding, and effective control measures to address these challenges and protect the Amazon's critical ecosystems.

The harpy eagle, classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, may see population growth in Venezuela due to accelerated development cycles linked to drought conditions in the Amazon region. Alexander Blanco, director of Venezuela's national harpy eagle conservation program and a 2017 Whitley Award winner, notes that the species is reaching adulthood faster, with some fledglings flying at three months. Despite potential population increases, threats from mining and deforestation due to agricultural expansion persist. Venezuela is home to approximately 1,500 harpy eagle pairs, with the Imataca Forest Reserve being a key habitat. Conservation efforts face challenges from human activities, including illegal trafficking, and lack of state support, but have seen some success with community engagement and sustainable practices.

A study by the Red Amazónica de Información Socioambiental Georreferenciada (RAISG) reveals that the Amazon region lost one million hectares of freshwater surface between 2013 and 2022, representing a 4% reduction. Colombia experienced the highest loss, followed by Bolivia, Peru, Venezuela, Brazil, and Ecuador. The study highlights the impact of human activities such as deforestation and climate change on water surface reduction. Experts warn of the potential disappearance of glaciers in the region, which could have severe consequences for local communities and ecosystems.

Illegal armed groups in Colombia have displaced park rangers and are disputing control over 14 protected areas in the Amazon. The violence and threats from groups like the FARC and Comandos de Frontera have made it impossible for park rangers to monitor these areas effectively, leading to significant deforestation. The situation has worsened since the 2016 Peace Agreement, with illegal activities such as mining and coca cultivation increasing. Experts argue that the lack of governance and insufficient budget for environmental protection are major challenges. The article underscores the urgent need for effective measures to protect both the biodiversity and the lives of those working in these areas.

The Colombian Amazon faces significant challenges as illegal armed groups, particularly FARC dissidents, occupy and exploit protected areas, leading to increased deforestation and violence against park rangers. The withdrawal of FARC post-peace agreement left a governance vacuum, exacerbating illegal activities. Park rangers face threats and displacement, with limited access to many areas due to security concerns. The article highlights the need for improved governance, resources, and state presence to protect these vital ecosystems. Despite some reduction in deforestation, illegal mining and coca cultivation persist, complicating conservation efforts.

Satellite monitoring has detected 70 illegal mining sites and 934 hectares of deforestation in the Ye’kwana and Sanema territories in Venezuela's Amazonas state. Indigenous leaders and environmental organizations like Wataniba and SOS Orinoco report that illegal mining, driven by external actors and exacerbated by economic crises and high gold prices, is causing significant environmental damage. The presence of Colombian guerrilla groups and Brazilian miners further complicates the situation. Calls for binational planning and government action are emphasized to address the environmental and social impacts.

Colombia is set to implement a new law to address environmental liabilities, focusing on abandoned oil and mining waste. The law, supported by several Colombian congress members, aims to create a comprehensive registry of environmental damages and hold responsible parties accountable. The Ministry of Environment will develop a public policy for managing these liabilities, including funding strategies. Ecopetrol and Mansarovar Energy are identified as major contributors to unresolved environmental impacts. The law also addresses challenges in managing liabilities from illegal mining and historical cases. The initiative is seen as a significant step towards environmental accountability in Colombia.

Environmental and indigenous defenders in Ecuador question the effectiveness of a recent military operation against illegal mining in the Amazon. Despite the intervention, only a small number of machines were destroyed, and many miners managed to evade capture, suggesting a possible information leak. The operation, involving 1500 police and military personnel, was criticized for its limited impact. The article highlights the ongoing environmental devastation and threats faced by local communities, emphasizing the need for more effective measures and better protection for indigenous lands.

The potential opening of three new coal mines and the resumption of an old project in Colombia could significantly increase methane emissions, contradicting the country's climate goals. The Global Energy Monitor report highlights that these projects could add 216,000 tons of methane emissions annually. Despite President Gustavo Petro's opposition to coal mining, the Turkish company Yildirim and Prodeco, a subsidiary of Glencore, are pushing forward with their projects, facing legal and community consent challenges. Experts stress the environmental and social impacts, including water contamination and agricultural disruption. The International Energy Agency and OECD recommend reducing coal dependency to mitigate climate change. The Colombian government faces pressure to balance economic interests with environmental responsibilities.

The European Union is set to implement a new law prohibiting the import of products linked to deforestation, requiring importers to provide detailed information on the origin and traceability of goods such as soy, beef, rubber, cocoa, and coffee. This legislation, approved by the European Parliament and awaiting final approval from the European Council, aims to reduce the EU's environmental footprint and ensure compliance with labor and human rights standards. The law will significantly impact Latin American countries like Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and Honduras, which export these products to the EU. Human Rights Watch supports the law, emphasizing the need for binding regulations to prevent deforestation and protect indigenous rights. The effectiveness of the law will depend on the resources allocated for its implementation and the cooperation between the EU and exporting countries.

In 1985, the eruption of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano caused the Armero tragedy, affecting the departments of Caldas and Tolima and resulting in over 23,000 deaths. Since March 2023, volcanic activity has increased, prompting Colombia to raise the alert level to orange on March 31, indicating a potential eruption in the coming days or weeks. The government has established a unified command post to monitor the situation and has announced plans to evacuate over 40 families, with 2,000 families still in high-risk areas. Vulcanologist Natalia Pardo from the University of the Andes in Bogotá explains the behavior of the volcano, the likelihood of an eruption, and the nature of volcanic eruptions and ash. The magma is currently four kilometers from the crater's surface, and the volcano has reached 10,000 earthquakes per day, indicating magma movement.

The Awá people in Colombia and Ecuador face severe threats from illegal armed groups, including forced recruitment, violence, and displacement. Despite peace agreements, violence has increased, with significant incidents in 2020 and 2022. Both countries' ombudsmen issued a binational alert to protect the Awá, but its effectiveness is questioned. The Awá community is actively resisting through cultural programs and indigenous guards. Illegal economies, such as coca cultivation and mining, exacerbate their plight. The Awá call for state intervention and protection, emphasizing the need for community-based security strategies.

In 1985, the eruption of the Nevado del Ruiz volcano in Colombia caused a devastating tragedy in Armero, killing over 23,000 people. Recent volcanic activity has raised alerts from yellow to orange, indicating a potential eruption in the coming days or weeks. The Colombian government has established a unified command post to monitor the situation and has begun preventive evacuations. Volcanologist Natalia Pardo explains the current state of the volcano, the types of eruptions it may produce, and the importance of risk management and preparedness. Despite advancements in monitoring and emergency response, challenges remain in ensuring the safety and economic stability of affected communities.

The Colombian government's decision to destroy machinery used in illegal mining in Bajo Cauca, Antioquia, led to a regional strike and confrontations with the Clan del Golfo, which profits from narcotics and illegal gold mining. The strike, which began on March 2, 2023, involved blockades that lasted at least eleven days. Negotiations between miners and the government are ongoing, with the government insisting on the destruction of mining machinery. The government has disabled 951 illegal mines since August 2022 and is working on formalizing mining activities while addressing environmental impacts. Experts emphasize the complexity of the issue, the need for a comprehensive policy, and the challenges of ecosystem restoration.

Illegal mining in Colombia, particularly in the Bajo Cauca region, has led to significant challenges for the government, including a month-long stoppage orchestrated by the Clan del Golfo. The government's efforts to destroy illegal mining equipment have been met with resistance from miners, who argue that previous agreements have been violated. Negotiations are ongoing, with discussions about creating a mining district to formalize small and medium-sized miners. Experts highlight the environmental risks and the need for a comprehensive strategy to address illegal mining, emphasizing the importance of formalization and ecosystem restoration. The situation underscores the complexity of balancing economic, environmental, and social factors in addressing illegal mining.

Chinese investments in Latin America, totaling $172 billion between 2010 and 2016, have led to significant environmental and social issues, according to a report by NGOs. The report highlights that Chinese companies often disregard the rights of local communities and cause environmental damage. The United Nations has issued recommendations to China to ensure human rights are respected in its overseas projects. Key projects in countries like Ecuador, Venezuela, and Bolivia have been criticized for deforestation, water contamination, and inadequate community consultation. The report calls for better oversight and accountability for Chinese investments.

Illegal mining in Farallones de Cali National Park has surged since the pandemic, with sophisticated operations causing significant environmental damage, including deforestation and mercury contamination. Despite judicial orders and recent preventive actions by the Procuraduría General de la Nación, the issue remains uncontrolled. Park officials and researchers highlight the severe ecological impacts and threats to local water sources. Corruption and inadequate judicial processes hinder efforts to combat the illegal activities, which are also linked to threats and violence against park personnel.

Chinese investments in Latin America, totaling $172 billion between 2010 and 2016, have led to significant environmental and social issues. A report by NGOs highlights that Chinese infrastructure projects in the region often disregard community rights and environmental standards. The UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights has recommended China ensure human rights in its overseas projects. The report identifies problematic projects in nine countries, affecting fragile ecosystems and indigenous communities. The Chinese state and its companies are criticized for their lack of accountability and transparency.

The Inga people of Villagarzón, Colombia, are celebrating the withdrawal of the oil company Gran Tierra from their territory. The company had been granted a license for the APE La Cabaña project in 2014 without proper consultation with the indigenous communities. Legal challenges by the Inga led to the recognition of their presence and the suspension of the project. Despite the company's departure, concerns remain about the lack of consultation for future projects and the environmental impact of the oil exploration. The Inga, supported by legal advisors and organizations like Ambiente y Sociedad, continue to fight for the recognition of their rights and the remediation of their territory.

The Yanomami people in Brazil and Venezuela face a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbated by illegal mining, health issues, and neglect from the Brazilian government under Jair Bolsonaro. Brazilian President Lula Da Silva has declared a health emergency and ordered the expulsion of illegal miners. The crisis includes malnutrition, malaria, and environmental degradation. Yanomami leaders are calling for international support and legal recognition of their territories. The Venezuelan Yanomami also suffer from similar issues, with additional challenges in health and food security.

Indigenous communities in Chocó, Colombia, face severe violence and displacement due to armed groups like the Clan del Golfo and ELN. Despite the 2016 Peace Agreement with FARC, violence persists, with high rates of confinement and displacement reported in 2022. The indigenous Emberá people are particularly affected, facing threats, forced recruitment, and environmental degradation. The article underscores the need for inclusive peace negotiations and highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region.

Seven Orinoco crocodiles were transported from Venezuela to Denmark's Crocodile Zoo to aid in the species' conservation. The journey involved complex logistics, including road and air travel, and was supported by various organizations, including the Venezuelan government and National Geographic. The project aims to breed the crocodiles in Denmark and return their offspring to Venezuela in three years. The Orinoco crocodile is critically endangered, with only 250 adults remaining. The initiative is part of a broader conservation strategy to restore the species' population in its natural habitat.

An oil spill in Lake Maracaibo marked the beginning of 2023 in Venezuela, exacerbating long-standing environmental issues. Experts attribute the frequent spills to PDVSA's neglect of pipeline maintenance since 2016, worsened by the Venezuelan government's inaction. The spills threaten the lake's unique estuarine ecosystem, home to numerous endemic species. Despite having the necessary tools to control the spills, the lack of political will and outdated contingency plans hinder effective action. The article calls for a return to democracy and stronger institutions to address the crisis.

In 2021, Colombia saw a significant increase in coca cultivation, with over 204,000 hectares planted, the highest in two decades. This rise is also evident in national parks, where coca crops expanded by 21% compared to 2020. The UNODC report highlights the environmental impact, including deforestation and contamination from agrochemicals. Factors contributing to this increase include global cocaine demand, low implementation of peace agreements, and the devaluation of the Colombian peso. Experts criticize the failed war on drugs and emphasize the need for alternative development strategies and better implementation of peace agreements.

Colombia is advancing a bill to address environmental liabilities, which are long-term environmental damages from projects like mining and landfills. The bill, supported by various congress members including Angélica Lozano, aims to legally define and manage these liabilities, filling a legal gap. It proposes creating a National Registry of Environmental Liabilities and involves entities like the Ministry of Environment and regional corporations. The bill has faced criticism from the previous government but is supported by the current administration. The legislation seeks to ensure accountability for environmental damages, even if companies dissolve or change ownership.

Colombia's new president, Gustavo Petro, faces significant environmental challenges, including deforestation, illegal mining, and the protection of Indigenous rights. The previous administration under Iván Duque is criticized for its ineffective deforestation policies and human rights issues. Experts and organizations emphasize the need for better coordination with Indigenous communities and more effective anti-deforestation measures. The Petro government is seen as having potential to address these issues, with early positive steps such as the approval of the Escazú Agreement and initiatives to protect environmental defenders.

The Colombian State Council ruled in favor of a public action demanding stricter mining regulations, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas. The ruling includes eight orders for the state, emphasizing the need for the Ministries of Environment and Mines to coordinate on mining titles to protect ecosystems. The ruling also mandates the creation of a system to visualize Colombian territory for better case-by-case analysis. The compliance with this ruling falls under the oversight of the Comptroller's Office and the Attorney General's Office. The ruling does not prohibit mining title requests or exploitation but requires environmental certification for any new requests during the ruling's implementation period. The National Mining Agency must refrain from granting mining permits if there is any doubt about environmental impact. The ruling is not clearly retroactive, but President Gustavo Petro and Environment Minister Susana Muhammad have indicated a review of past titles. The State Council ordered the development of an information system within two years to address overlaps between mining titles and environmental areas, with the entire ruling to be executed within five years.

An analysis by Mongabay Latam reveals that Colombia experienced 2133 hydrocarbon incidents and spills between 2015 and June 2022, with the highest number of incidents occurring in 2015, 2020, and 2021. The data, sourced from the Autoridad Nacional de Licencias Ambientales (ANLA) and obtained through the Corporación Regional Yariguíes and Senator Fabián Díaz of the Partido Verde, highlights significant environmental impacts, particularly in the departments of Santander, Boyacá, and Antioquia. Ecopetrol, the largest oil company in Colombia, reported the most incidents, raising concerns about the adequacy of environmental oversight and the accuracy of incident reporting. The findings underscore the need for stricter environmental regulations and better infrastructure maintenance to mitigate future incidents.

The Constitutional Court of Colombia ruled against the adjudication of vacant lots by judges, mandating the recovery of lands granted to non-eligible individuals, primarily large landowners. The ruling aims to promote land access for disadvantaged rural populations, emphasizing the role of the National Land Agency (ANT) as the sole adjudicating entity. The decision stems from 13 grouped tutela rulings and focuses on post-1994 cases. The court's decision aligns with the Peace Agreement's land policies, urging the government to implement structural agrarian reforms. The ruling may indirectly benefit environmental conservation by reclaiming lands in ecologically significant areas.

The article examines the environmental challenges inherited by Gustavo Petro from Iván Duque, focusing on deforestation, protection of environmental leaders, and renewable energy. It highlights the failures of Duque's administration in curbing deforestation and protecting indigenous leaders, while expressing hope for Petro's policies. The text also discusses the need for better management of protected areas, combating illegal mining, and the importance of renewable energy development.

The environmental sector in Colombia is severely underfunded, receiving only 0.35% of the national budget in 2021 and 0.38% in 2022, which is significantly lower than other sectors. This underfunding hampers efforts to combat deforestation and manage protected areas. The book 'Análisis institucional y de las finanzas del sector ambiental colombiano, 2016-2020' highlights these issues, noting that key institutions like the Instituto Humboldt and National Natural Parks are struggling due to financial constraints. The proposed budget for 2023 further reduces the allocation to 0.24%, raising concerns about the government's commitment to environmental protection. The article also discusses the potential impact of Gustavo Petro's tax reform on environmental funding and the challenges posed by corruption and inadequate oversight in the sector.

The article discusses the environmental challenges faced by Colombia, highlighting the failure of former President Duque's administration to effectively combat deforestation, which worsened by 5% during his term. The new government under President Gustavo Petro inherits these issues, with deforestation being a significant challenge. Experts and former officials criticize Duque's policies, such as the Artemisa military operation and the tree planting initiative, for being insufficient and poorly executed. The article also touches on the protection of social and environmental leaders, the fight against illegal mining and deforestation, and the need for better management of protected areas. Petro's government is expected to address these challenges, with a focus on environmental protection and indigenous rights.

The article critiques private pension funds in Colombia, highlighting their investments in companies involved in corruption scandals, such as Corficolombiana and Odebrecht. It argues that these funds, controlled by major economic conglomerates like Grupo AVAL and Grupo Empresarial Antioqueño, have led to financial losses for pensioners due to poor investment decisions and corruption. The article also discusses the collapse of the Chirajara bridge and the ongoing investments in Corficolombiana despite its tarnished reputation.

The Supreme Court of Justice has forwarded copies to the Prosecutor's Office, the House of Representatives, and the Judicial Disciplinary Commission to investigate potential crimes involving several prominent figures, including Alejandro Char Chaljub, Fuad Char Abdala, Julio Gerleín Echeverría, and others. The investigation also extends to former presidents Álvaro Uribe Vélez and Juan Manuel Santos, as well as current President Iván Duque and former Attorney General Néstor Humberto Martínez Neira. The cases of Senators Arturo Char and Laureano 'El Gato' Acuña will continue in the Supreme Court.

The Muon g-2 Experiment at Fermilab in Illinois, where the author works, announced a recent measurement of the muon's magnetism on April 7, which suggests that muons do not behave as predicted by the Standard Model of particle physics. The measurement, which aligns with past results from Brookhaven National Laboratory in New York, indicates that the muon's magnetism is slightly stronger than the theory suggests. Although only 6% of the data has been collected, the experiment is expected to run for two more years to gather sufficient data to potentially declare a discovery that could change the course of physics or validate the Standard Model. The research team at Fermilab will continue to generate and analyze data, while theoretical physicists will carefully examine recent calculations based on the Standard Model.

China Tobacco's Panama-based factory was shut down after authorities found its products in the country's black market. A network of Panama-connected companies continues to send large quantities of Chinese cigarettes to various Latin American countries. The Zona Libre de Colón, while a tax-free commercial showcase, is also a hub for smuggling, according to expert Daniel Rico. Journalists have uncovered a network of fake companies based in Panama that send huge amounts of Chinese cigarettes from the free zone to Latin American countries where there is no legal market for such products. These companies are linked to the state-owned China National Tobacco Corporation (CNTC), which controls almost half of the global market and is trying to expand its reach. The smuggling of CNTC cigarettes has flooded countries from Mexico to Ecuador, with packaging in Spanish indicating they are manufactured specifically for Latin American markets. The pattern of smuggling is growing rapidly, with significant increases in seizures in Colombia and Brazil. Panama is identified as a key regional center for this illicit trade, with lax regulations and enforcement allowing companies to exploit the system with little punishment.

Thousands of Maasai were displaced by energy projects in Kenya funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB). The projects have led to the loss of ancestral lands for the Maasai community.

The article discusses the prevalence and consequences of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) globally, highlighting that 145 million girls and women have been affected, with the practice occurring in 29 countries, mostly in Africa. FGM causes severe health issues, psychological trauma, and is considered a violation of human rights. The article reveals that FGM is not just an African issue but is also found in the Middle East, Asia, and among immigrant communities in Europe and North America. It explores the different types of FGM and the challenges faced by NGOs and governments in combating the practice. The article also covers initiatives in countries like Sudan, Somalia, Benin, and Kenya, and discusses the role of genital reconstructive surgery for survivors. Despite some progress, the article emphasizes the need for continued efforts to eradicate FGM, with millions of girls still at risk.