The city of Rio de Janeiro is known around the world for its natural beauty, gorgeous beaches, friendly people and its yearly "Carnaval".
Since the global crisis hit world markets in 2008, making the grade for investment and moving up the rankings of rating agencies has been difficult for many national governments, let alone for regional, state and municipal authorities.
Global athletic competitions to have long-lasting effects for their host city
Special police squads bring order back to blighted slumsMore than just a simple eyesore, the slums that house more than one-third of Rio de Janeiro's population pose a great challenge for city leaders as they prepare to host the next World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympics.
Carrying the torch to its futureDespite the pressure of organizing the world's premier sporting competition, Maria Silva Bastos Marques seems to be taking it in her stride.
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