Ecuador’s president gained a resounding endorsement for “mano dura” policies against organized crime in Sunday’s referendum. A delicate democratic balance is at stake.

Diana Salazar’s investigations have taken down major figures. But a wave of drug-related violence is changing what defending the rule of law looks like.

Amid a surge in organized crime, President Daniel Noboa seeks to strengthen the armed forces and drug penalties in an April 21 vote.

A recent mob attack underscores the need to recognize the gendered dimensions of violence in a critical election year.

Homicide rates have fallen steadily in recent years, but over a third of Brazil's public believe that violence has increased since Lula took office.

An overview of how homicide and other crimes are evolving in the region

President Noboa has deployed more than 30,000 soldiers and policemen to contain the chaos. While homicides have fallen, kidnappings and extortion remain high.