News Analysis

Colombian Mayors at a Crossroads: Co-Govern With Criminals or Flee

As local and regional elections approach, Colombian armed groups are increasingly targeting politicians. Here, the story of one brave mayor.

Colombia's 'Total Peace' 1 Year On: Less State Violence, Stronger Criminal Groups

Colombia's President Petro announced his Total Peace plan 12 months ago. But how has his flagship policy played out?…

Is Evacuation of 8,600 Venezuelan Miners Just Another Smokescreen? 

The government's first operation massively displacing miners from Yapacana lacks transparency and leaves more questions than answers. …

Venezuela's Reliance on Contraband Food Risks Industry Collapse 

Hyperinflation is forcing Venezuelans to buy cheaper foodstuffs smuggled in from Colombia, putting the jobs of Venezuelan producers at risk.

In Ecuador’s Elections, Social Programs Won

In the second round of Ecuador's presidential race, both candidates favor using social measures to address the country's security crisis.

Guatemala’s President-Elect Still Has 1 More Hurdle to Cross

Bernardo Arévalo won Guatemala's presidential election. But he will face more challenges from political elites before taking up the post.

Changing Faces: Sinaloa Cartel’s Longtime Colombia-Connect Sentenced to Prison 

The sentencing of notorious Colombian drug trafficker Chupeta marks the end of a lucrative and bloody career.

Is Gang Legalization Responsible for Ecuador’s Security Crisis? 

InSight Crime spoke with Brotherton to learn more about the history of gang legalization in Ecuador and examine its impact…

Europe: Cocaine’s Ever-Expanding Market 

InSight Crime spoke with expert Yulia Vorobyeva, about drug trafficking trends and the growing demand for cocaine in Europe. …

Paraguay's New Cabinet Shadowed by Criminal Ties

Paraguay’s new president, Santiago Peña, will face entrenched organized criminal interests, some of which appear to have close ties to…

Uruguay's Homegrown Crime Groups Likely to Stay Local, Study Says

Mounting homicides and increased drug trafficking have raised concerns about organized crime in Uruguay. Recent studies presented to the Ministry…

Amazon Protection Pact Falls Short on Tackling Organized Crime 

Leaders in Belém failed to discuss measures to combat organized criminal groups perpetrating environmental crimes in the Amazon.