The use of state-run media outlets has skyrocketed in Ecuador, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. What are the implications for freedom of the press?

An AS/COA panel explored the ramifications of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's January 2012 visit to Latin America, as well as Tehran's ties to the region.

A preview article from Americas Quarterly Winter 2012 issue discusses the recent elections in Guatemala and Nicaragua, where chose two competing symbols of their pasts to address modern socioeconomic and security challenges. How will they fare?

Daniel Ortega's re-election as president is not being recognized by his challenger, Fabio Gadea. What happens next? James Bosworth analyzes the Nicaraguan elections in this Americas Quarterly web exclusive.

"Sunday’s elections in Guatemala and Nicaragua were notable for their relative lack of controversy, despite the conclusion of virtually all independent analysts that the former risks a return to the violence of the past and the latter was contrary to Nicaragua’s own constitution," writes COA's Eric Farnsworth.

The two countries headed to the polls Sunday. Retired General Otto Pérez Molina won Guatemala’s runoff, while former rebel leader Daniel Ortega gained reelection in Nicaragua.

Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega won congressional approval of three laws that some observers say will deepen executive and military powers. Such moves reflect other regional bids to strengthen or extend presidential power.