NEW YORK – Brazil has recently generated positive headlines with its 2016 Olympic bid victory, as well as its increased economic and political visibility.

Based on current economic trends, it could be one of the world’s five biggest economies — along with China, the United States, India and Japan — by the middle of this century, according to The Economist.

Yet, the evidence of progress has been marred by the nation’s troubling crime statistics — and reports of unlawful methods employed by the security forces. Read the full story

The 47-member UN Human Rights Council has adopted a resolution on the so-called “Goldstone report”, which accuses both Israel and Hamas militants of war crimes committed during the 22-day Gaza conflict last December and January. The resolution was passed by a vote of 25 in favor. The six countries that voted against it include the United States and several European countries. Read the full story

U.S. to push for new economic world order at G20

WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The United States will urge world leaders this week to launch a new push in November to rebalance the world economy, but there are doubts national governments will bow to external advice. Read the full story