View AQ's exclusive photos of mines and their surrounding communities in Chile, Colombia and Peru.

Mining conflicts can be mitigated through adherence to already agreed-upon international norms.

The Catholic Church is not the greatest barrier to the advancement of gay rights in the Americas.

Chile’s Michelle Bachelet would face political and policy challenges in a second bid for president.

The late president leaves behind a questionable legacy in actually improving lives.

Crowds have waited to glimpse Chávez’ body for nine consecutive days (slideshow).

The new Pope will bring to the Catholic Church a new perspective and an attention to critical social issues.