The Andes
Ecuador

Ecuador: protests grip Galápagos

The Galápagos Islands have seen weeks of protest over a newly instated law that gives Ecuador's national government greater control over land use and wages on the popular tourist destination. It also gives the Environment Ministry the power to change the borders of Galápagos National Park. Locals say the law opens the way for foreign investment and private encroachment on the National Park, undermining local businesses and potentially devastating unique wildlife.

North America

Dakota Access CEO cheered by Trump victory

Trump has holdings in the company building the Dakota Access pipeline, whose CEO says he is "100%" confident construction will be completed under the new administration.

The Andes

Fracking opponents threatened in Colombia

A peasant community in Colombia's Cesar department has been threatened with legal action by oil giant ConocoPhillips for blocking roads to prevent development of a fracking site.

The Andes

Colombia: land occupation turns violent

A hacienda owner in Colombia's Cauca region is demanding payment for damages to his property after indigenous protesters clashed there with security forces.

The Andes

Colombia: terror targets indigenous leaders

A total of 18 indigenous campesinos in Colombia's Cauca region have been killed this year, in a paramilitary campaign of intimidation against land recovery efforts.