Map by Adriana Gage

Brazil’s Azul Airlines Files for Bankruptcy Amid Aviation Sector Challenges

20007325 — 2025-05-29 11:20:31 UTC

Brazilian airline Azul has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S., aiming to restructure approximately $9.6 billion in debt. The airline plans to reduce its debt by over $2 billion and has secured potential backing from American and United Airlines. This move reflects broader struggles within Latin America’s aviation industry, which has faced financial strains due to the COVID-19 pandemic, macroeconomic challenges, and limited government support.

Colombian Labor Unions Strike in Support of Labor Law Referendum

20007325 — 2025-05-29 11:23:36 UTC

Thousands of Colombian workers initiated a 48-hour strike to support President Gustavo Petro’s proposed labor law referendum, which aims to limit workdays to eight hours and restore worker rights. This action follows Congress’s rejection of Petro’s reform plans. The president has indicated he may issue a decree to authorize the referendum if legislative opposition continues, highlighting ongoing tensions between the executive branch and Congress.

Bolivia Declares National Emergency Due to Catastrophic Flooding

20007325 — 2025-05-29 11:26:31 UTC

Since March 2025, Bolivia has declared a national emergency in response to severe flooding that has resulted in over 50 fatalities and displaced more than 100,000 individuals. The prolonged wet season has affected all nine of Bolivia’s departments, with the government mobilizing military personnel to distribute aid. The flooding underscores the increasing impact of climate change on the region’s weather patterns.

Argentina Faces Criticism Over Economic Policies Affecting the Vulnerable

20007325 — 2025-05-29 11:29:18 UTC

Archbishop Jorge García Cuerva of Buenos Aires publicly criticized President Javier Milei’s economic policies during a sermon commemorating Argentina’s May Revolution. He highlighted the adverse effects of austerity measures on the poor and pensioners, noting issues such as limited access to medicine and food. The government’s spending cuts have led to weekly protests and increased social tensions.

Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa Re-elected Amidst Political Tensions

20007325 — 2025-05-29 11:31:33 UTC

Ecuador held general elections in early 2025, resulting in the re-election of President Daniel Noboa after a runoff against Luisa González. Despite a narrow initial lead, Noboa secured 55.63% of the vote in the second round. The election period was marked by political tensions, including a state of emergency declared prior to the runoff and disputes over the legitimacy of the results, although international observers deemed the elections free and fair.