Al Jazeera reports on a displacement crisis in Catatumbo, Colombia, sparked by renewed conflict between rebel groups. This violence, occurring despite a 2016 peace agreement with FARC, has forced tens of thousands to flee their homes, overwhelming resources in areas like Cucuta. The displaced face food shortages and uncertainty about returning, straining humanitarian aid efforts. President Petro's "total peace" policy faces challenges as peace talks with the ELN stall and the state struggles to establish a presence in rural areas. The lack of infrastructure and the flourishing coca trade exacerbate the crisis, leaving residents questioning when they can return home. The article highlights the dire situation and the limitations of current efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and provide adequate support.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PS News reports that a Cape York man has been arrested in Colombia. The individual, in his 50s and employed by a council contractor, was allegedly caught with 3.5 kilograms of cocaine while attempting to depart the country. Authorities believe the man has made multiple trips between Colombia and Dubai in recent months. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is providing consular assistance, though further details are limited due to privacy obligations. The article, originally published in the Cape York Weekly, also touches on unrelated topics, including public sector news, career advice, lifestyle features, and property.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colombian senators are proposing new regulations for the cryptocurrency industry, aiming to protect users and foster investment. The proposed bill seeks to establish a VASP operating permit system to ensure compliance with AML/CFT protocols. Lawmakers believe current lack of regulation creates risks for consumers and enables misuse of cryptoassets. They want to create a more reliable environment with guarantees for the sector. However, some experts caution against overly strict rules that could stifle innovation and drive crypto businesses elsewhere. A balanced legal framework, including reasonable taxation, is crucial for sustainable growth and adoption in Colombia.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese state-backed companies have significantly increased investments in Colombian infrastructure projects since trade deals were established between 2008 and 2019. These investments encompass critical sectors, including ports, highways, mining, energy, and public transportation systems like metro lines and light rail. Concerns arise from the secretive nature of these deals, the potential for Chinese companies to control vital infrastructure, and the influx of Chinese workers. Several projects have faced controversies involving corruption allegations, environmental concerns, labour disputes, and the sidelining of local engineering firms. These investments are reshaping Colombia's infrastructure landscape, fostering economic growth while simultaneously raising questions about sovereignty and transparency. The Colombian government is now reviewing the deals to renegotiate them in some situations.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colombia's war crimes tribunal (JEP) has indicted 39 army officials, including four generals, for their involvement in the extrajudicial killings of 442 civilians in Antioquia between 2004 and 2007. These killings were driven by a "body count policy" that incentivised soldiers to present civilians as guerrillas killed in combat. Commanders allegedly dismissed complaints about the killings, attributing them to guerrilla tactics The JEP highlighted that these executions occurred after guerrilla groups were strategically defeated, and paramilitary groups demobilised, with victims often lured with false promises of work or identified through cooperation with paramilitaries. The JEP stressed these actions violated existing government and military directives. Indicted officials now have the choice to accept the charges and participate in the JEP’s restorative justice system or face imprisonment.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We examine Colombia's neutral stance three years into the Russia-Ukraine war. Despite officially remaining neutral under President Petro, the piece highlights the historical context of initial condemnation under previous leadership. It notes that approximately 2,000 Colombian mercenaries are fighting for Ukraine, often driven by economic hardship. The article acknowledges Petro's call for peaceful resolution but also mentions his criticism of Russia in specific circumstances, like civilian attacks. The piece concludes by emphasising the difficult situation of ex-military personnel in Colombia who take up mercenary work. Colombia has offered diplomatic resources to enable a “just peace” between the parties.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The trial of former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has resumed after a court rejected a defence request to remove the judge. Uribe is accused of fabricating charges against individuals who linked him to the AUC paramilitary group, allegedly using bribed witnesses. Evidence suggests Uribe's defence team attempted to delay proceedings and were held in contempt of court. Testimony includes claims that Uribe and his brother were involved in creating the "Bloque Metro" death squad with Medellin Cartel associates. The trial, which began in 2018, was moved to a lower court after Uribe resigned from the Senate. Uribe maintains his innocence, pleading not guilty to fraud and bribery charges.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Feb 10, 2025: Gustavo Petro, the President of Colombia, has created upheaval within his government by requesting the resignation of his entire cabinet. This request follows public criticism of his ministers' performance and disagreements over recent appointments, including Laura Sarabia as foreign minister. Tensions were already high due to Petro's standoff with US President Donald Trump regarding migrant deportations, and the naming of Armando Benedetti. Several ministers, including those of Labour and Environment, have already resigned amid the escalating crisis. The situation is further complicated by allegations of corruption and misconduct against some appointees. The political turmoil may affect Colombia's future on many levels.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.