South America

FIFA has designated six nations to host the 2030 World Cup, marking the first time the tournament will span three continents. The main hosts are Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with opening matches to be held in Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina as a centenary tribute. The number of participating teams (48 or 64) and the location of the final remain undecided. The decision was announced on December 11, 2024, with little suspense as the Spain-Portugal-Morocco bid won. The article also notes ongoing questions about logistics and format, including a humorous comment about Greenland.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 10:19 AM UTC

FIFA has designated six nations to host the 2030 World Cup, expanding on the three-country model for 2026. The main hosts will be Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with opening matches scheduled in Uruguay, Paraguay, and Argentina to commemorate the tournament's centenary. This marks the first World Cup to be held across three continents. However, key details remain unresolved, including the total number of participating teams (48 or 64) and the location of the final match. The decision was announced on December 11, 2024, with the Spain-Portugal-Morocco joint bid winning the hosting rights. The article highlights ongoing questions about the tournament's structure and logistics.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:50 PM UTC

The Economist reports that South America is making significant progress in eradicating hunger, attributing the success to prudent central bank policies and targeted government handouts. The article highlights improvements in Brazil's poorest areas, such as the Guamá favela in Belém, where residents now afford steak and shrimp. It contrasts this with previous years of widespread food insecurity. The piece credits inflation control by central banks and well-designed social programs for boosting purchasing power and reducing poverty. The analysis suggests that savvy economic management, rather than populist spending, is driving the region's rapid improvement in food security and living standards.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:35 PM UTC

Emergent, an AI software creation platform, announced a $130 million Series C funding round led by Creaegis, with participation from MNI Ventures - Claypond Capital, Sentinel Global, Khosla Ventures, SoftBank Vision Fund 2, Lightspeed, and Y Combinator. The round values the company at $1.5 billion, a fivefold increase in four months, making it a unicorn within a year of its public launch. Users have built over 12 million applications on the platform, with 70% of users having no prior coding experience. The platform targets non-technical entrepreneurs and small business owners, enabling them to build full-stack, production-ready web and mobile applications using autonomous AI agents. Strong adoption is reported in the US, Europe, and expanding into Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and South America. Total funding now stands at $230 million.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 12:43 PM UTC

On July 19, CONMEBOL President Alejandro Dominguez posted a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to support the Argentine national team ahead of the World Cup final against Spain. He wrote: 'Go, Argentina! Go, South America! The big moment of the World Cup final has finally arrived. Aim high and keep the World Cup trophy on this land!' The message emphasizes keeping the World Cup trophy in the Americas, reflecting regional pride. The article was published by Hupu Soccer, a Chinese sports news platform, and has 861 reads at the time of reporting.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 02:11 PM UTC

Less than a year before the FIFA presidential election scheduled for March 2027 in Rabat, Gianni Infantino appears in a strong position to extend his tenure. According to RMC Sport, the Italian-Swiss official has already secured nearly 200 endorsements among the 211 FIFA member associations, with no official opposition emerging so far. Despite criticisms during the 2026 World Cup, his political base remains solid. Some major European federations like Germany and France have not yet stated their position. UEFA continues to explore fielding an opponent, but finding a candidate capable of gathering enough votes is proving difficult. Infantino can count on major support from several confederations, particularly in Africa and South America, allowing him to aim for a new term even without unanimous European backing. UEFA's challenge appears more about creating a counterbalance and opening debate on FIFA's governance rather than waging a frontal battle to oust the incumbent.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 11:52 AM UTC

Ahead of the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, a wave of memes, criticism, and social media sentiment indicates that many South American and Latin American fans are rooting against Argentina. The article explores multiple reasons: accusations of refereeing favoritism toward Argentina, racism by Argentine fans and players (including a 2022 chant and a recent incident with streamer IShowSpeed), anti-FIFA sentiment fueled by political decisions like allowing a red-carded player to play after a Trump appeal, and a perception that Lionel Messi is FIFA's 'darling' compared to the revolutionary Diego Maradona. Sociologists and fans from Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Chile express a preference for Spain to win. Even Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum's press conference saw journalists chant 'Spain!' Lionel Messi has responded to the criticism, noting Argentina's success.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 10:17 AM UTC

On July 18, Spanish newspaper Marca published a poll involving over 20,000 users worldwide, asking which team they support in the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. Users were required to state their continent of origin, and Marca claimed to have verified IP addresses to confirm geographic locations. The results show strong global support for Spain, with Asia at 82% for Spain and 18% for Argentina, Africa at 88% for Spain, Oceania at 86%, North America at 72%, South America at 59%, and Europe at 53%. The article notes that Marca's Spanish origin may affect the poll's credibility. The data was republished by Hupu, a Chinese sports community.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 07:31 AM UTC

A sophisticated criminal operation centered in New Hampshire has been dismantled by local police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The ring, allegedly run by Chinese nationals, stole Apple gift card data from retail stores by carefully opening packages to record PINs before resealing them. Once activated by unsuspecting customers, the funds were drained to purchase high-value Apple hardware like iPhones and MacBooks. New Hampshire was chosen for these purchases due to its lack of sales tax, maximizing illicit profits. The devices were then shipped to a local warehouse, repackaged, and sold to gray-market importers in China, Dubai, and South America. Authorities seized approximately 4,000 iPhones valued at $8-9 million in one raid, charging nearly 20 individuals with wire fraud and related crimes. The investigation also revealed a murder linked to a warehouse robbery. With gift card scams causing over $212 million in losses in 2024, experts advise consumers to buy digital cards directly from trusted sources or inspect physical cards for tampering to avoid falling victim to similar fraud schemes.

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A hantavirus outbreak aboard the MV Hondius cruise ship resulted in three deaths and multiple confirmed cases among passengers from 23 countries. Originating likely in Argentina, the rare Andes virus strain facilitated limited human-to-human transmission. The World Health Organization coordinated a complex international evacuation in Tenerife, Spain, repatriating over 120 individuals for mandatory quarantine. While the WHO assessed the global public health risk as low, the incident highlighted challenges in managing infectious diseases in maritime settings, leading to varied national containment protocols and secondary exposure incidents in healthcare facilities.

101 reports · 55 sources · Updated Jul 3, 12:04 PM UTC

Brazilian refereeing is achieving an unprecedented milestone in the next round of CONMEBOL competitions, with five full crews of Brazilian officials assigned to matches in the Copa Libertadores and Copa Sudamericana. Specifically, three Libertadores fixtures and two Sudamericana ties in the fifth round will be officiated entirely by Brazilian professionals. The appointed referees include Anderson Daronco, Flávio Rodriguez de Souza, Wilton Pereira Sampaio, Bruno Arleu de Araújo, and Matheus Delgado Candançan. Officials from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) hailed this development as a testament to their investment in training, technology, and professionalization. Netto Góes, the CBF Refereeing Director, emphasized that this recognition reflects the rising status of Brazilian referees, who also hold nine spots in the upcoming World Cup. Rodrigo Cintra, president of the CBF Refereeing Committee, noted that this level of representation across South America is historic and positions Brazil as a global reference in refereeing. The article lists the specific match assignments and officiating teams, highlighting the integration of VAR and assistant referees from Brazil in these high-profile continental games.

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Mellany and Niek van Heijningen, a Dutch couple from Geldrop, recently completed a four-month sabbatical trip through South America with their two children. The experience profoundly influenced their approach to work-life balance, teaching them the importance of scheduling sufficient rest and prioritizing shared family activities over rigid planning. Niek works as an R&D manager for a nylon manufacturer, focusing on recycling processes, while Mellany transitioned from a managerial role in the pharmaceutical industry to running her own coaching practice, citing a desire for more meaningful work. The article explores their personal history, having met during university studies in Eindhoven, and their current life in the Netherlands. It highlights their appreciation for the cultural vibrancy of Eindhoven, their children's diverse interests ranging from aerial silks to robotics, and their differing views on international work environments like Silicon Valley. Ultimately, the narrative underscores a shift towards mindfulness, connection, and intentional living, exemplified by their travel experiences and daily practices such as tantric dance.

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A peer-reviewed study published in the journal Viruses reveals that the Andes strain of hantavirus can persist in human semen for years, posing a potential sexual transmission risk even after patients appear fully recovered. Researchers at Switzerland’s Spiez Laboratory detected viral material in the semen of a 55-year-old Swiss man 71 months after his initial infection in South America, despite the virus being undetectable in his blood, urine, or respiratory tract. This finding suggests the male reproductive tract acts as an immune-protected reservoir, similar to patterns observed with Ebola and Zika viruses. Although direct human-to-human sexual transmission of hantavirus has not yet been documented, health experts recommend adopting cautious post-recovery protocols for male survivors. These may include extended safe-sex guidance, such as condom use or abstinence, mirroring World Health Organization guidelines for Ebola survivors. The discovery has prompted renewed public health monitoring, particularly amid recent hantavirus concerns linked to the MV Hondius cruise and cases in Britain. While based on a single patient, the evidence highlights the need for updated medical advice to prevent potential long-term transmission risks to spouses and partners.

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New research conducted by Switzerland's Spiez Laboratory reveals that the Andes strain of hantavirus can remain active in men's sperm for up to six years after initial infection. The study examined a 55-year-old Swiss man who recovered from the virus but still harbored it in his testes, a biological sanctuary where the immune system has limited access. Although no confirmed cases of sexual transmission have been reported yet, this finding suggests a potential risk similar to that observed with Ebola and Zika viruses. Consequently, health experts advise male survivors to practice safe sex and undergo regular sperm testing for an extended period, mirroring World Health Organization protocols for Ebola survivors. This discovery is particularly relevant following recent hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship in the UK. The UK Health Security Agency is monitoring the situation and providing comprehensive advice to prevent further spread. This study highlights that hantavirus transmission is not limited to rodent contact or airborne routes, necessitating updated medical guidelines and heightened public awareness regarding long-term post-recovery precautions.

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Mercedes-Benz is commemorating its 140th anniversary with a global initiative titled '140 Years. 140 Places,' designed to showcase the automaker's rich history and tradition to fans worldwide. The tour features significant locations tied to the brand's legacy, including a planned but ultimately canceled project in the Atacama Desert due to time constraints. Matthias Wenzel, involved in the tour, highlighted the ambition to bring the Mercedes star to iconic sites globally. The article also features insights from Marcus Breitschwerdt, head of the manufacturer's classic department, who discussed the importance of preserving automotive heritage. Breitschwerdt was pictured during the restoration of a 1924 Targa Florio racing car, emphasizing the technical and historical dedication behind the brand's classics. The anniversary tour is scheduled to visit Austria in the autumn, allowing local enthusiasts to engage with the company's historical milestones. This initiative underscores Mercedes-Benz's strategy to blend modern product presentations, such as the GLC launch in the Algarve, with a deep respect for its foundational history and engineering traditions.

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This article defends birdwatchers against public criticism following a hantavirus outbreak linked to a landfill visit in Ushuaia, Argentina. Dutch ornithologist Leo Schilperoord and his wife died after contracting the virus, which subsequently spread to other cruise ship passengers, resulting in eleven confirmed or suspected cases and three deaths. Media commentators, including Jon Stewart, mocked the decision to birdwatch in a landfill. However, the author argues that landfills are legitimate and scientifically recognized birding hotspots. Citing a 2016 Audubon article and a 2021 PLoS One study, the text explains that landfills attract diverse avian species, including rare raptors like the white-throated caracara and threatened grassland birds, due to abundant food sources. Experts note that landfill habitats can support species richness comparable to natural sites. The piece urges the public to stop stigmatizing birders for visiting these areas, emphasizing their ecological value and the normalcy of such practices within the ornithological community, rather than viewing them as foolish or unsanitary choices.

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MBRF announced a net profit of R$111 million for the first quarter of 2026, marking a 26% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. The company reported total net revenue of R$39.5 billion and an EBITDA of R$3.1 billion. This positive financial performance was primarily driven by robust global demand for animal proteins and strategic shifts toward more profitable international markets. Notably, direct exports of poultry and pork reached record levels, with shipments to Europe rising 43% and sales to Asia growing 18% quarter-over-quarter. In North America, the beef division generated US$3.5 billion in revenue, despite facing significant challenges due to historic highs in cattle prices and a shrinking US herd, which has dropped to its lowest level since 1952. Meanwhile, operations in South America saw a 23.1% revenue increase, while the Halal segment achieved record profitability, benefiting from Ramadan consumption and maintaining logistical efficiency amidst regional conflicts in the Middle East. CEO Miguel Gularte highlighted favorable conditions in China, Europe, and the Middle East as key contributors to the company's success.

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This news analysis from CBC News addresses public concerns regarding the potential development of a 'super' El Niño event. The article explains that while current ocean temperature anomalies show signs of warming consistent with El Niño patterns, there is no immediate need for alarm. It references historical data, specifically highlighting a map from 2016 which depicted one of the strongest El Niño events on record, characterized by a distinct red 'tongue' of warm water extending west from South America. The piece aims to contextualize current climate observations against past extreme weather phenomena, suggesting that while monitoring is essential, the situation has not yet reached the critical threshold of a super El Niño. By providing scientific context and visual aids illustrating sea surface temperature deviations, the report seeks to inform readers about the nuances of climate patterns without inducing unnecessary panic. The focus remains on educating the public about the characteristic signs of El Niño and the current status of global ocean temperatures, emphasizing a measured and informed perspective on evolving environmental conditions.

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A peer-reviewed study conducted by the Spiez Laboratory in Switzerland reveals that the Andes strain of Hantavirus can survive in human semen for up to six years, posing a potential sexual transmission risk even after recovery. Researchers investigated a 55-year-old Swiss man who contracted the virus in South America and found detectable viral traces in his semen 71 months post-infection, despite its absence in blood and other fluids. The testes act as an immune-privileged reservoir, similar to mechanisms observed with Ebola and Zika viruses. Although sexual transmission of Hantavirus has not yet been documented, experts recommend adopting safe sex protocols analogous to WHO guidelines for Ebola survivors. This includes regular semen testing and consistent condom use or abstinence until clearance. The findings have implications for current health monitoring, including cases linked to the MV Hondius cruise. Health agencies like the UK Health Security Agency are reviewing guidance to advise male patients on reducing onward transmission risks, emphasizing the need for extended safe-sex education beyond standard quarantine periods.

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Hydropower remains the backbone of South America's energy system, currently satisfying 45% of the continent's electricity demand despite only 30% of its potential being exploited. However, development has plateaued due to falling investor confidence in Colombia and political volatility in Argentina, Peru, and Chile. Climate change poses significant risks, with El Nino-intensified droughts impacting generation and extreme weather events threatening infrastructure reliability. Governments are increasingly seeking to diversify energy sources and improve water management strategies. Recent studies highlight vulnerabilities in key hydrological basins, particularly in northern Argentina, the La Plata Basin, and eastern Brazil. Meanwhile, Bolivia is expanding its hydropower capacity, with the Rositas dam project aiming to boost energy production and agricultural land while mitigating flooding. The International Hydropower Association notes that while total installed capacity reached 183GW in 2024, adaptive management strategies are crucial to balance generation efficiency with climate-related risks. The integration of AI and advanced assessment models is becoming essential for navigating these complex challenges and ensuring long-term energy security in the region.

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Following a Hantavirus outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius, virologist Niko Kohmer emphasizes that while vaccinations are crucial, they do not cover all travel health risks. The incident involves the dangerous South American Andes variant of Hantavirus, which has a high mortality rate and potential for human-to-human transmission, unlike milder European strains. Four German passengers were quarantined in Frankfurt for observation due to the virus's long incubation period. Kohmer advises travelers to consult reputable sources like the Robert Koch Institute and seek professional travel medical advice tailored to their specific destination and activities. He highlights Hepatitis A as a key vaccination for most travelers leaving Germany, alongside ensuring standard immunizations such as tetanus, diphtheria, and measles are up to date. Additionally, he notes that Yellow Fever vaccination is legally required for entry into certain countries in South America and Africa. The article underscores the importance of precautionary measures beyond just vaccines, including awareness of vector-borne risks like mosquitoes in Europe and rodent exposure in remote nature areas.

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Giuseppe Remuzzi, director of the Mario Negri Institute, provides critical insights into the emerging hantavirus situation, specifically referencing the HV Hondius variant. He emphasizes that while the virus is less contagious than SARS-CoV-2, it possesses a significantly higher mortality rate, estimated between 30% and 50%. Remuzzi criticizes the missed opportunity to conduct comprehensive testing and genetic analysis during the initial outbreak on a ship, which would have clarified transmission dynamics. Currently, with confirmed cases and deaths reported across multiple continents, he warns that scientific understanding remains limited and subject to change due to potential viral mutations. The primary defenses remain non-pharmaceutical interventions such as mask-wearing and hand hygiene, as no vaccine is currently available. However, he expresses optimism regarding future mRNA vaccine development, citing the successful collaboration seen during the pandemic. Remuzzi also highlights the importance of strengthening national health systems, particularly territorial medicine, drawing on lessons learned from the Covid-19 crisis to better handle future infectious disease threats.

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An outbreak of the Andean strain of hantavirus aboard the cruise ship Hondius has raised urgent questions about the lack of specific treatments and vaccines for this deadly virus. Currently, no targeted therapy exists for this strain, which is unique in its ability to transmit between humans and carries an estimated lethality rate of 40%. A French passenger from the cruise is currently in serious condition at Bichat Hospital in Paris. Historically, hantavirus has been a neglected tropical disease, primarily affecting South American countries like Chile and Argentina with 50 to 100 annual cases transmitted via rodent excretions. The low number of patients has hindered clinical trials and funding, similar to other neglected diseases like sleeping sickness. However, this epidemic outbreak and rising case numbers in Argentina may shift public health priorities, potentially boosting research and development efforts. Scientists at the Malbran Institute in Buenos Aires are actively studying the virus, but significant challenges remain in developing effective medical countermeasures due to limited historical investment and small patient pools for testing.

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Recent scientific analysis of the hantavirus genome has provided critical insights into its potential for mutation and spread. According to Andreas Hoefer, the virus's genetic structure has been successfully sequenced, revealing that it remains similar to strains responsible for previous outbreaks in South America. This similarity suggests that the virus has not undergone significant mutations that would enhance its contagiousness among humans. The findings are crucial for public health officials and researchers monitoring zoonotic diseases, as they indicate that the current risk profile of the hantavirus has not escalated due to genetic changes. By confirming the stability of the virus's genome, experts can better predict its behavior and continue to rely on existing containment and prevention strategies. This development underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance in managing potential health threats originating from animal reservoirs. The report highlights the role of international scientific collaboration in tracking viral evolution and ensuring that global health responses are based on accurate, up-to-date genetic data.

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Finning International announced its first-quarter 2026 financial results, highlighting a record adjusted earnings per share of $1.02. President and CEO Kevin Parks emphasized the company's strong execution, noting that product support revenue grew for the eighth consecutive quarter, rising 6% globally and 13% in Canada. The mining sector remains a key strength, with the Canadian large mining truck population increasing by 25% over the past two years. While mining activity in Chile moderated due to customer recalibration, investment opportunities are emerging in Argentina. The company reported a significant 32% year-over-year increase in backlog, which more than doubled in the mining and power and energy segments in Canada. The power and energy backlog reached $1.2 billion, driven by prime power, oil and gas, and data center solutions. Construction backlog also grew substantially in South America and the UK and Ireland. Finning continues to prioritize rental discipline and cost optimization, resulting in a 60 basis point decline in SG&A margin despite targeted investments in new branches and inventory. The company maintains a focus on building its installed base to drive long-term value and resilient earnings.

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Canadian cattle farmers are raising urgent concerns regarding a potential trade agreement with South American nations, warning that it could severely undermine Canada's domestic beef industry. Tyler Fulton, president of the Canadian Cattle Association, highlighted significant risks to both producers and consumers in an interview with the Financial Post. The primary objections center on the perceived one-sided nature of the deal, which may flood the Canadian market with cheaper imports without ensuring reciprocal benefits. Furthermore, stakeholders are alarmed by differing food safety standards between Canada and South American exporters, potentially compromising consumer protection. The article also notes broader anxieties related to United States trade dynamics, suggesting that this deal could disrupt existing North American agricultural trade balances. As negotiations progress, the industry argues that inadequate safeguards could lead to long-term economic damage for Canadian ranchers. The debate underscores the tension between expanding international trade opportunities and protecting local agricultural sectors from unfair competition and lower regulatory standards. This development highlights the complex interplay of global commerce, national food security, and regional economic stability within the agricultural sector.

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Canadian cattle farmers are raising significant alarms regarding a potential trade agreement with South American nations, specifically highlighting the Mercosur bloc. Industry representatives warn that the deal could severely undermine Canada's domestic beef sector due to perceived one-sided concessions that favor imports over local production. Key concerns center on divergent food safety standards, with farmers arguing that imported beef may not meet the rigorous health and quality regulations enforced in Canada, thereby creating an uneven playing field. Additionally, there is growing anxiety about the broader implications for trade relations with the United States, Canada's largest export market. Farmers fear that aligning too closely with South American standards could jeopardize existing trade dynamics with the U.S., potentially leading to retaliatory measures or reduced access to American markets. This situation underscores the complex interplay between international trade expansion and domestic agricultural protection, as stakeholders debate the economic benefits of new markets against the risks to local industry stability and food safety integrity.

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The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange has released its agroclimatic outlook for May 14 to 20, predicting a week defined by significant thermal contrasts and uneven precipitation across the agricultural region. The period will begin with cool conditions driven by polar air, followed by a rapid temperature surge as tropical winds return, pushing maximums above 25°C in northern areas like the Chaco Region and northeastern Paraguay. Conversely, western and southern zones will remain cooler, with temperatures staying below 20°C. Rainfall is expected to be scarce for most of the agricultural zone due to low atmospheric humidity, except for northeastern Paraguay, which may receive over 25 millimeters of rain. By the week's end, a vigorous storm front will bring renewed polar winds, causing temperatures to drop sharply. This shift introduces a serious risk of frost, particularly in the western agricultural areas, the south of the Pampas Region, Mesopotamia, and extensive parts of Uruguay. Mountainous areas in NOA and Cuyo could see temperatures fall below 0°C. These volatile weather patterns place various agricultural productions on high alert for potential damage from freezing conditions.

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A laboratory at the University of Nebraska Medical Center has successfully developed and validated a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test capable of detecting the rare Andes hantavirus in its early stages. This development comes in response to an outbreak on a cruise ship, with sixteen American passengers returning to the United States for quarantine and monitoring. Unlike existing serological tests that only detect antibodies after symptoms appear, this new diagnostic tool identifies the virus before severe illness sets in, which is critical given the disease's approximate 35 percent fatality rate. The CDC currently lacks a validated diagnostic PCR test for patient management, prompting Nebraska officials to collaborate with researchers at the University of New Mexico. By utilizing genetic materials and reagents shipped from New Mexico, the Nebraska team rapidly assembled and validated the test over a weekend. This initiative highlights a significant gap in national public health infrastructure, as most US laboratories lack the capacity to diagnose this specific South American strain, which is genetically distinct from native US hantavirus variants. The test aims to facilitate prompt medical treatment and prevent further spread among returning travelers.

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This guest commentary argues that Germany must develop a comprehensive foreign and development policy strategy to effectively combat organized crime linked to the cocaine trade. The authors highlight that cocaine is a global business model with severe local consequences in both production regions in Latin America and consumer markets in Europe. Data from the Federal Criminal Police Office indicates a cocaine glut in Germany, with over 70 percent of related legal proceedings having transnational dimensions. The article emphasizes the structural connection between European demand and criminal networks in Latin America, where cartels corrupt state institutions and impose violent order. Furthermore, it notes that organized crime has penetrated legal sectors in Germany, including construction and logistics, as revealed by a 2024 mafia investigation committee. The authors stress the crucial role of civil society in addressing these challenges. They call for a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnection of organized crime, social inequality, and consumer behavior, urging policymakers to think globally rather than focusing solely on domestic enforcement. The piece underscores the need for international cooperation and support for civil society actors to dismantle these entrenched criminal structures.

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