Brazilian Judge Halts Construction of Belo Monte Dam
A Brazilian judge has ordered a halt to construction of a major hydroelectric dam in the Amazon rain forest, citing the violation of environmental commitments. The $11 billion Belo Monte Dam project was initially approved over the objections of indigenous communities who have warned of ecological damage and mass displacement.
Food Stamp Recipients Face “Hunger Cliff” as Deep Cuts Take Effect
The more than 47 million people who receive food stamps in the United States will see a decrease in their aid beginning today as a temporary boost from the 2009 stimulus expires. Dubbed the “hunger cliff” by critics, the drop will reduce monthly food stamps for a family of four by $36 each month. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, food stamps will now average less than $1.40 per person, per meal next year. The decrease comes two days after lawmakers opened talks on a farm bill that will likely cut food stamps even more. One-in-seven people in the United States rely on food stamps.
Indonesian Workers Launch Nationwide Strike for Pay Hike
In Indonesia, workers launched a nationwide strike Thursday demanding a wage hike amid soaring inflation. A group representing labor unions said about two million workers are participating, although police put the number much lower. The strike shut down factories that produce garments and other goods, many of them for multinational firms. Indonesian factory workers are among the worst paid in Asia.