The Brazilian House of Deputies passed a law that would open up more of the Amazon to small farmers—a move environmentalists denounce as an invitation to accelerate already rising deforestation.

With Dominique Strauss-Kahn gone, Latin Americanists eye non-European picks to head the International Monetary Fund.

Nearly two years after Honduran head of state Manuel Zelaya was forced into exile, a deal signed with current President Porfirio Lobo allows for the ousted leader's homecoming and the country's return to the OAS.

Even as more Latin Americans join the ranks of the middle class, childhood poverty rates remain stubbornly high in many of the region's countries. Treating the problem requires closing gaps on education and job access, say observers.

The White House has renewed calls for immigration reform but, as the wait for action continues, states keep making legislative moves of their own.

Sugar-based ethanol production has helped wean Brazil off foreign-oil dependence, but skyrocketing demand is straining the industry and stretching the limits of Brazil’s fuel self-sufficiency.

Exit polls show that Ecuadorans largely voted in favor of a 10-point referendum on May 7. But even though voters backed President Rafael Correa’s proposals, some changes—such as media and judiciary reforms—remain controversial.