John Otis

Colombian soldiers at La Macarena with John Otis's son, Martin.

In Colombia, a journalist brings his kids to see where rebels once freely roamed

For many years, FARC rebels controlled La Macarena National Park. Two journalists had dangerous encounters there and frightening memories. So why did they bring their kids this time?

In Colombia, a journalist brings his kids to see where rebels once freely roamed

Starbucks to Open First Shop in Coffee Rich Colombia

Starbucks to Open First Shop in Coffee Rich Colombia

Ecuador Leader Thumbs Nose at US, Trying to Help Snowden with Asylum

Ecuador Leader Thumbs Nose at US, Trying to Help Snowden with Asylum
The World

Brazil's Truth Commission Under Fire from Military and Torture Victims

Brazil's Truth Commission Under Fire from Military and Torture Victims

Colombian Government and FARC Rebels Launch Talks in Norway

Colombian Government and FARC Rebels Launch Talks in Norway

Brazil Embraces Affirmative Action With New Law to Boost Racial Diversity at Universities

Brazil is moving ahead on affirmative action. In August, Brazil's president signed a law setting aside half of public university seats for poor or nonwhite students.

Brazil Embraces Affirmative Action With New Law to Boost Racial Diversity at Universities

Cuba and Drugs to Dominate Summit of the Americas

President Obama is attending the Summit of the Americas this weekend in Colombia. Anchor Marco Werman asks reporter John Otis in Colombia about the two topics that are likely to dominate the gathering: Cuba's absence and alternatives to the drug war.

Cuba and Drugs to Dominate Summit of the Americas

FARC Frees Hostages in Colombia, Men Reunited With Families

Ten Colombian soldiers and policemen had emotional reunions with their families on Tuesday, a day after being freed by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (the FARC). Some had been held for up to 14 years.

FARC Frees Hostages in Colombia, Men Reunited With Families

Colombia's local elections mired in fraud and corruption

There are 130,000 candidates running in the October 30 elections for governor, mayor and local councils in Columbia, and more than 10 percent have criminal records.

Colombia's local elections mired in fraud and corruption

Local Elections In Colombia Fraught With Problems

Widespread complaints of fraud and intimidation by guerrillas and drug-traffickers mar the run-up to the gubernatorial elections.

Local Elections In Colombia Fraught With Problems
The World

Chavez's Housing Crunch

Venezuela is struggling with a housing crisis and like before, President Hugo Chavez is promising lots of new construction.

Chavez's Housing Crunch

The Persistent Mayor of Caracas

The Chavez government has taken away nearly all power from Antonio Ledezma's office.

The Persistent Mayor of Caracas
The World

Has Hugo Chavez Really Helped the Poor in Venezuela

Critics say he is not using his petro-dollars in a way that sustains his achievements over time.

Has Hugo Chavez Really Helped the Poor in Venezuela
The World

Hugo Chavez and the Arab Spring

Venezuela's leader sees himself as a champion of the people but in the Mideast, he is siding with dictators

Hugo Chavez and the Arab Spring

Why Venezuela's Wealth of Energy Resources Can't Stop Blackouts

Despite its huge energy resources, Venezuela can't produce enough electricity to meet demand.

Why Venezuela's Wealth of Energy Resources Can't Stop Blackouts