The Museum of Tomorrow in Rio de Janeiro, a popular science museum, faces potential funding cuts from the local government. Mayor Marcelo Crivella plans to reduce cultural spending, impacting local projects initiated during the 2016 Olympics. Residents like Luziete Fernandes express concern over the cultural and economic implications of these cuts, highlighting the museum's role in revitalizing the area.

The article discusses the positive impact of the basic income program 'bolsa mumbuca' in Maricá, Brazil, which is funded by oil royalties. The program provides financial support to low-income residents, helping them meet their monthly expenses. Beneficiaries like Taiana Pereira express satisfaction with the program, which has also boosted local business revenues. The municipal government, led by a left-leaning administration, aims to expand the program to cover more residents. The Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF) is conducting research to evaluate the program's effects on consumption and local prices.

The Brazilian city of Itaituba is experiencing a gold rush that has led to significant division among its residents. While the city benefits economically from gold mining and soybean transportation, the environmental impact and legality of these activities are contentious. Local leaders like Luiz Eduardo Sadeck advocate for the legalization of gold mining to boost the economy, supported by President Jair Bolsonaro. However, environmental concerns, particularly the use of mercury and deforestation, are raised by officials like Hugo Charchar. The situation has also caused divisions within the indigenous communities, who are affected by the pollution and loss of traditional livelihoods.

Sonia Bermúdez, a 64-year-old Colombian woman, dedicates her life to providing dignified burials for those who cannot afford them, particularly focusing on Venezuelan refugees in Riohacha. Despite financial constraints and conflicts with the Catholic Church, she continues her mission with support from the UNHCR. Bermúdez's work is driven by a deep sense of respect for the dead and a desire to serve God. Her personal life is marked by her love for her family and her resilience in the face of societal challenges.

The article discusses the impact of the Venezuelan crisis on child prostitution in Colombia, focusing on a shelter in Riohacha for young victims of sexual exploitation. Mayerlin Vergara, a coordinator for the Renacer foundation, explains the increasing urgency of the problem due to the influx of Venezuelan refugees. The article also highlights the challenges faced by Colombian justice in prosecuting human trafficking, with insights from prosecutor Mario Gómez. The narrative includes personal stories of the victims and the efforts to rehabilitate them.

The article discusses the impact of the Venezuelan crisis on child prostitution in Colombia, focusing on a shelter in Riohacha that supports young victims. Mayerlin Vergara from the Renacer foundation explains the increasing problem due to the influx of Venezuelan refugees. The article also highlights the efforts of the Down to Zero program and the challenges faced by Colombian justice in prosecuting human traffickers, as described by prosecutor Mario Gómez.

The transport of soy by large companies through the Amazon has severely disrupted the lives of Brazilian fishermen in Itaituba. Francisco Oliveira, a local fisherman, describes how the construction of ports and the presence of large soy boats have restricted fishing areas and caused environmental damage. The agrobusiness sector, supported by government policies, has marginalized traditional fishing communities, leading to conflicts over fishing territories and a decline in local livelihoods. Oliveira's personal account highlights the broader impact of development on vulnerable communities in the Amazon.

Alessandra Korap, a Munduruku leader, is actively defending her people's territory in the Amazon against economic exploitation encouraged by President Bolsonaro's policies. Despite threats and violence, the Munduruku have successfully halted the construction of a hydroelectric dam that would have flooded their land. The article highlights the ongoing tension between indigenous communities and economic interests, emphasizing the Munduruku's fight for their rights and the preservation of their culture and environment.

Itaituba, a city in the Amazon, is a hub for soy transportation and illegal gold mining. The local union for cattle farmers and the strategic location for soy export are highlighted. The city council is pushing for the legalization of gold mining, supported by President Bolsonaro, despite environmental concerns. The article discusses the impact of illegal mining on indigenous territories and the environment, with local officials and residents divided on the issue.

The article discusses the ongoing conflict between street carnival groups and municipal authorities in Rio de Janeiro. Despite efforts by Mayor Marcelo Crivella to reduce the number of street carnival groups (blocos) and cut funding for samba schools, the street culture continues to thrive. Many blocos have become unofficial to avoid bureaucratic restrictions, maintaining their freedom and vibrancy. The article highlights the resilience of Rio's street culture and its historical roots, emphasizing that the street continues to prevail over authority.

Reflecting on twenty years as a freelance journalist in Latin America, the author recounts her journey from the Netherlands to Colombia and Brazil. Initially planning to open a book café in Bogotá, she shifted to journalism amidst Colombia's conflict with FARC. She highlights key events, including Álvaro Uribe's presidency, the failed peace talks, and her interactions with various stakeholders. Moving to Brazil in 2013, she observes the country's political and economic changes, expressing hope for peace under Colombia's first leftist government and concern over Brazil's right-wing leadership. The narrative emphasizes the warmth and resilience of Latin American people.

Brazilian Justice Minister Sergio Moro resigned after President Bolsonaro dismissed the military police commander against Moro's wishes. Moro accused Bolsonaro of interfering in police investigations involving his sons, which Bolsonaro denied. The resignation sparked protests in multiple cities. Moro's departure could pose problems for Bolsonaro, who is already facing criticism over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and conflicts with state governors. Calls for Bolsonaro's impeachment have resurfaced, with former President Fernando Henrique Cardoso urging Bolsonaro to resign.

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro surprised many with a speech urging a return to normal life and the abandonment of quarantine measures, contradicting previous agreements with state governors. He criticized the media and the policies of states like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. His stance, which downplays the severity of the coronavirus, has been met with significant opposition from political leaders and the public, with calls for his impeachment. The speech aligns with the economic priorities of U.S. President Donald Trump, though the American Embassy in Brazil advised citizens to return home.

Cycling in Rio de Janeiro is perceived as dangerous due to chaotic traffic and a lack of bike paths. The author expresses fear of cycling from the city center to popular beaches like Leme or Copacabana. However, there has been a recent increase in cycling among the author's friends and neighbors, facilitated by the availability of rental bikes. Despite the growing popularity of cycling and admiration for those who brave the conditions, the author remains hesitant due to the perceived anarchy and aggression in traffic, as well as infrastructure issues like the collapse of the Tim Maia bike path.

Jair Bolsonaro's first year as president of Brazil has been marked by significant polarization, controversial rhetoric, and a shift towards right-wing policies. His administration has relaxed environmental regulations, leading to increased deforestation in the Amazon, and has promoted traditional family values over progressive social policies. Despite efforts to boost the economy through neoliberal policies, unemployment remains high, and international investment is limited. Bolsonaro's confrontational style and controversial appointments have further fueled domestic and international tensions.

In Bolivia, day laborers and low-income supporters of former President Evo Morales are protesting his resignation and demanding his return. Morales, who sought refuge in Mexico, is credited with implementing healthcare reforms that benefited the poor. The protests, centered in La Paz, have been largely peaceful, though violent clashes have occurred elsewhere, resulting in fatalities. Jeanine Añez, a relatively unknown opposition figure, has declared herself interim president, a move confirmed by the Bolivian Supreme Court but contested by Morales' party. The political situation remains tense as new elections are anticipated.

In Santa Cruz, protests continue despite former President Evo Morales announcing his resignation, as it has not been officially confirmed. Protestors demand the resignation of more politicians from Morales' party, MAS, and support opposition member Jeanine Añez as interim president to call for new elections. The twenty-day strike has significantly impacted daily life, with businesses remaining closed. Residents express relief at Morales' departure, fearing Bolivia could become like Nicaragua, Cuba, or Venezuela under his leadership. Santa Cruz, a key economic hub, seeks greater recognition from the government in La Paz.

Wies Ubags reports from Santa Cruz, Bolivia, where protests and strikes against President Evo Morales have been ongoing for twenty days. The opposition, centered in Santa Cruz, has set up roadblocks and is demanding Morales' resignation, citing a disregarded referendum and alleged election irregularities. Luis Fernando Camacho, a prominent opposition figure, has become the face of the movement instead of presidential candidate Carlos Mesa. The opposition's demands include new elections with a renewed electoral council. The situation escalated when the police sided with the protesters, the OAS expressed disapproval of the elections, and the military withdrew support from Morales, leading to his resignation.

Evo Morales has resigned as President of Bolivia amid widespread protests and accusations of election fraud. In Santa Cruz, a stronghold of opposition, celebrations erupted as citizens blocked roads and demanded Morales' departure. Luis Fernando Camacho emerged as a prominent opposition leader, overshadowing former presidential candidate Carlos Mesa. The Organization of American States (OAS) and the Bolivian police and army withdrew their support for Morales, leading to his resignation. The opposition calls for new elections with a reformed electoral council.

The death of eight-year-old Ágatha Felix, caused by a stray police bullet, has sparked widespread anger and protests in Rio de Janeiro. Residents of favelas are protesting against the police's violent tactics in their war against drug dealers, which have resulted in numerous innocent casualties. Governor Wilson Witzel, aligned with President Jair Bolsonaro on the far-right political spectrum, is held responsible for the harsh security policies. Despite public outcry, Witzel defends his approach and promises an investigation into the incident. Critics, including PSB deputy Carlos Minc, condemn the lack of proper law enforcement and the dangerous use of force by police.

The article discusses the destructive impact of President Jair Bolsonaro's policies on the Amazon rainforest and indigenous communities, as highlighted by Sonia Guajajara, a prominent indigenous leader. Guajajara criticizes the Brazilian government's focus on economic gain at the expense of environmental and indigenous rights. She supports international pressure, including from the European Union, to enforce environmental protections. The article also mentions the skepticism surrounding Bolsonaro's 60-day ban on forest burning and the efforts of European environmental organizations to increase pressure on Brazil.

The Brazilian Amazon is experiencing numerous forest fires despite higher rainfall in 2019 compared to previous years. The non-governmental organization Ipam links the increase in fires to rising deforestation rates, suggesting that fires are set to clear recently deforested land for commercial use. Ipam's science director, Ane Alencar, explains that fires are typically contained by moisture-rich trees in adjacent areas, but extreme dryness can cause fires to spread. The current situation is alarming, with a significant rise in fires early in the season, indicating a surge in deforestation. Ipam urges authorities to take swift action against deforestation to prevent catastrophic consequences. The increased deforestation is straining relations between scientists, environmentalists, and President Jair Bolsonaro, with farmers fearing they will bear the brunt of the fallout.

The Brazilian Amazon is experiencing numerous forest fires despite higher rainfall in 2019 compared to previous years. The non-governmental organization Ipam highlights a strong correlation between deforestation and forest fires, noting that fires are often set to clear recently deforested land for commercial use. Ane Alencar, Ipam's science director, emphasizes that the current situation is alarming, with a significant increase in fires early in the season, indicating a surge in deforestation. Ipam urges authorities to take swift action against deforestation to prevent catastrophic consequences. The article also touches on the tension between scientists, environmentalists, and President Jair Bolsonaro's far-right administration, with concerns that farmers may bear the brunt of the environmental policies.

The neighborhood of Morro da Conceição in Rio de Janeiro has undergone significant changes since the 2016 Olympic Games. Once a quiet area, it has become a bustling hub with new cafes, increased safety, and a surge in visitors. However, this transformation has also brought challenges, including noise, drug dealing, and a shift in the community's atmosphere. Residents express mixed feelings, appreciating the improvements but lamenting the loss of the neighborhood's former tranquility.

Residents of Morro da Conceição in Rio de Janeiro, including the beloved gay couple Guido Rosmann and Gean Kleber, are leaving due to the high cost of living. The couple had hoped to benefit from the influx of tourists during the 2016 Olympics by renting out a room on Airbnb, but the expected number of renters did not materialize. They have now decided to move to Vitória, Guido's birthplace, which is about an eight-hour drive from Rio. Their departure has left a void in the community, especially during the Carnival season, which they were known to celebrate enthusiastically. The house they left behind has been on the market since May, with a rental price that many find too high for the area.

Brazil faces increasing international criticism for its environmental policies under President Jair Bolsonaro, particularly regarding deforestation in the Amazon. Key figures like Senator Kátia Abreu and former INPE director Ricardo Galvão highlight the negative impacts of these policies on agriculture and climate. The European Union and China are considering stricter environmental requirements for Brazilian products, which could harm the country's agribusiness. The article underscores the need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to prevent Brazil from becoming an environmental pariah.

Venezuelan refugees, including the Guevara family, are fleeing to Colombia due to severe economic hardship and political instability under President Nicolas Maduro. Organizations like Terre des Hommes, IOM, UNHCR, and the Dutch Relief Alliance are providing essential aid and support. Despite hopes for opposition leader Juan Guaidó to bring change, many refugees are skeptical about the timeline and continue their arduous journeys to neighboring countries like Ecuador and Colombia. The ongoing crisis has led to millions fleeing Venezuela, with significant numbers seeking refuge in Colombia and Peru.

The author describes the transformation of their neighborhood in Rio de Janeiro, where drug dealers have become increasingly visible and assertive. Initially inconspicuous, the dealers' presence grew due to police crackdowns in nearby favelas and the area's rise in popularity from hosting major sporting events like the World Cup and Olympics. The neighborhood experienced violence and police raids, with residents coordinating via WhatsApp to avoid shootouts. Although a police operation temporarily displaced the dealers, they have since returned, conducting business openly and carrying weapons.

President Jair Bolsonaro's initial months in office have been marked by internal conflicts within his support base and controversial decisions, such as the retraction of the plan to move the Brazilian embassy in Israel to Jerusalem. His administration faces declining popularity, with 63% of the population rating his government poorly. Economic stakeholders are losing patience, urging Bolsonaro to focus on critical reforms like the pension system. The president's efforts to gain congressional support for these reforms have been minimal, and he faces significant challenges in securing a majority.

Two former police officers were arrested in Rio de Janeiro for the murder of leftist activist councilor Marielle Franco and her driver on March 14, 2018. The arrests after a year have caused discontent among Franco's supporters, who demand the identification of the murder's masterminds. The justice system suspects a hate motive against left-wing politicians and journalists, while President Jair Bolsonaro's administration has been criticized for its stance on human rights. Flávio Bolsonaro, the president's son, is linked to the murder through alleged connections with Rio militias. The Workers' Party has called for a parliamentary investigation into the militias and Flávio Bolsonaro's possible ties to them.

In the favelas of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the administration of President Jair Bolsonaro and Governor Wilson Witzel, police are reportedly using excessive force against suspected drug dealers, with accusations of shootings and human rights violations. Residents of Manguinhos favela believe the police are behind recent shootings, and there are claims of snipers being used. Witzel's policy aligns with Bolsonaro's hardline stance on crime, which has been criticized for disregarding human rights. Recent incidents in favelas, including one in Fallet with fifteen deaths, have raised concerns about police brutality and lack of accountability, with social scientist Sílvia Ramos emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and public scrutiny.

In the Brazilian favelas, police violence against drug dealers has intensified under President Jair Bolsonaro and Rio de Janeiro Governor Wilson Witzel. The article details incidents of police shootings and the use of snipers, raising concerns about human rights violations. Community members and experts criticize the government's hardline approach, fearing it exacerbates violence and undermines trust in law enforcement.

Valéria Borges, a history teacher in Niterói, Brazil, faced backlash and death threats after a student filmed her discussing the similarities between Nazi Germany and Bolsonaro's Brazil. The incident highlights a growing trend where students film leftist teachers, supported by the 'School zonder Partij' movement, which advocates for politically neutral education and opposes discussions on topics like homosexuality. The movement, backed by conservative politicians, faces opposition from educators, media, and the High Court of Brazil, which defends freedom of speech. Borges remains defiant, continuing to teach and speak out against conservatism.

Despite the legal equality of all Brazilians, Afro-Brazilians, descendants of slaves, still face significant social and political disadvantages. Elias Alfredo from the Rio metro union SIMERJ highlights the lack of representation in government and leadership positions, poor working conditions, and overrepresentation in prisons. The article discusses the historical context of racial inequality, including the 'law against idleness' targeting blacks post-slavery and the slow progress towards racial equality and awareness. It also touches on the importance of Afro-Brazilian culture and the need for societal recognition of the black population's value, which constitutes 54% of Brazil.

Brazil utilized ten times more slaves than the United States and was the last country to abolish slavery due to the plantations' reliance on slave labor. Mahommah Gardo Baquaqua, a slave from West Africa, described the horrific conditions during his transportation to Brazil around 1840. Slave communities, known as quilombos, and abolitionists, both black and white, played a role in the eventual abolition in 1888. The Dutch also participated in the slave trade, deporting 500,000 Africans to the Americas, with the West India Company accounting for over half. Plantation owners found it economically viable to work slaves to death within seven years. Post-abolition, racial inequality persisted, and it wasn't until the 1970s that black movements began to speak out again, with the struggle for equality continuing to this day.

The article discusses the importance of physical activity in childcare settings such as kinderdagverblijven (KDV's) and buitenschoolse opvang (BSO). It highlights the findings of a study conducted by the Mulier Instituut, which suggests that there should be more focus on physical activity in these environments. The study recommends incorporating movement into the policy, providing training for staff, and collaborating with other organizations to improve the situation.