Latin America

The U.S.-funded aerial spraying program has been aimed at killing the plants that feed the cocaine industry. Colombia says one of the chemicals in the spray may cause illnesses.

When the price of gold skyrocketed, illegal miners flooded into the country's Amazon basin, eager to find even the tiniest bits of the precious metal. Trees and villagers have paid a price.

Another lavish $215 million arena built for last year's event is now a homeless shelter. Touted as one of the best World Cups in history on the pitch, it's left a hangover of waste and mismanagement.

With 16,000 homicides last year, Venezuela became the world's second deadliest country. But even as crime climbs, the number of police battling criminals is falling.

The Brazilian performer was a huge hit with American audiences who loved her outrageous costumes and beautiful voice. But she's been less appreciated in her homeland — until now.

The men worked at the tobacco company for years. But after they were laid off, the only jobs they could find were as anti-smoking inspectors for the government. They do their new job with gusto.

The island's power authority owes $9 billion. Power costs are already high, but bondholders are pushing for rate hikes. That may deter employers, which would further hurt the territory's weak economy.