An expenses scandal is gripping Brazil after revelations that senators pocketed housing funds. Senate leader Jose Sarney (pictured) admitted to receiving a housing allowance while living in a rent-free official residence.
This week on The Observers: blogger Yoani Sanchez tests the limits of internet access in Cuba's hotels; our observers in Mexico and Egypt give us the latest on swine flu; factories in China; and Brazil's daredevil graffiti artists, the "pichadores."
A video posted on the Internet showing infanticide in some Amazon tribes has reignited debate in Brazil over the controversial practice. But NGOs defending the rights of these minorities are accusing the campaign of being an attempt at manipulation.
Today on the Web: Internet users help Pakistani refugees fleeing fighting between the army and the Taliban; the Web mobilises for victims of the floods in northern Brazil and how to check your colleagues' salaries.
As global health chiefs warned against complacency over the influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, Brazil and Argentina confirmed their first few cases of the flu.
After eight years in Europe, Brazilian striker Adriano, who had cancelled his contract with Inter Milan, signed with the Rio club Flamengo, where he started his career.
The H1N1 virus may seem under control in Mexico but the country is now looking at the political and economic fallout. Also: Chrysler, the troubled Detroit automaker, has filed for bankruptcy protection. Tough times for factory workers lie ahead.
Brazilian police on Friday set about evicting non-indigenous farmers from a vast tract of rainforest in northern Brazil after a court ruled the area be set aside for native tribes.
Brazilian striker Ronaldo scored twice as Corinthians beat rivals Santos 3-1 in the first leg of the Sao Paulo championship final on Sunday. He has scored eight goals in 10 games since his return from a career-threatening knee injury last year.
Web users concerned about civilians trapped between separatist Tamil Tigers and Sri Lanka's army have issued videos and posts on blogs to make the rest of the world aware of the situation. Also in this edition: Brazil celebrates France.
