Colombia Calling - The English Voice in Colombia

Scottish lawyer Heather Bain shares her recent trip to Colombia with the Colombian Caravana, highlighting the challenges faced by human rights defenders, the impact of conflict, and the importance of international awareness and advocacy. Catatumbo has a reputation for being a lawless area, and Heather recounts the realities of being there. The group was advised on the importance of clothing colours, as different colours can signify affiliations with various armed groups. Heather shares a tense moment, "I was told to avoid wearing navy because it could be misinterpreted, and there had been an incident with mistaken identity just before we arrived." This sense of danger was palpable, yet the work they were there to do was vital. Heather emphasized the importance of understanding the local context and being guided by their Colombian counterparts. Heather's experiences illustrate the complex and often dangerous landscape that human rights defenders navigate in Colombia. As she advocates for these defenders from afar, she underscores the importance of international awareness and support. In closing, Heather reminds us that the work of the Colombian Caravana is not just about visiting and observing—it's about forming connections and standing in solidarity with those who risk their lives for justice. https://www.colombiancaravana.org.uk

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.
 
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In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Andrei Gómez-Suárez discusses the complex peace negotiations with the Comuneros del Sur in Nariño, Colombia, exploring the historical context, recent developments, and the challenges of peace-building in a region deeply intertwined with illicit economies and social fabric. Key topics: Historical background of Comuneros del Sur and ELN in Colombia. Recent peace negotiations and partial agreements. Territorial control and social fabric of Nariño. Illicit economies and drug trafficking. Impact of peace process on local communities. Challenges of implementing peace agreements. Role of civil society and indigenous groups. Political dynamics and regional elections. Read Andrei Gómez-Suárez's book on his childhood in the midst of political violence in Colombia: https://a.co/d/0h94DhJ4

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode, Dr. Gwen Burnyeat explores the fascinating relationship between horses, politics, and identity in Colombia, revealing how equestrian practices reflect broader social and political dynamics. Dr Gwen Burnyeat is Associate Professor in Anthropology and Development at Oxford University. The world of Colombian gaited horses, or cultura caballista (horse-riding culture), is often linked with uribismo, the right-wing identity associated with former president Álvaro Uribe Vélez. Ethnographic fieldwork in conflict-torn Antioquia reveals how horse-human practices of training, breeding, and competition cultivate orientations toward hierarchical authority, disciplined hypermasculinity, and control over land and living bodies. This occurs within histories of racialized regional identity, paramilitarism, and narco-culture. Read the full article: https://www.research.ed.ac.uk/en/publications/cultura-caballista-right-wing-political-identities-and-gaited-hor/
 
Tune in for this episode and the Colombia Briefing with Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl chats with Eric Tabone about his entrepreneurial journey in Colombia, the nuances of hiring across Latin America, and the cultural shifts in Bogota over the years. As a seasoned entrepreneur based in Colombia, Eric shares his experiences and insights from his journey to establish successful businesses in Latin America. Eric's latest venture, Nearshore Business Solutions, aims to bridge the gap between US companies and talent across Latin America. He emphasises the importance of hiring locally to create meaningful opportunities while also helping businesses tap into the rich talent pool in the region. "I started this company about two years ago... we help US companies hire across Latin America." As Eric continues to navigate the complexities of business and life in Colombia, his insights serve as a valuable reminder of the opportunities and challenges that come with being an entrepreneur in a vibrant and evolving market. For more on Eric's journey and to hear his thoughts on the future of Nearshore Business Solutions, check out the full episode.

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, freelance journalist Katharine Houreld discusses the complex involvement of Colombian mercenaries in the Sudan conflict, the regional and global power dynamics, and the human stories behind the headlines. Key topics include: The current conflict in Sudan and its origins. The involvement of Colombian mercenaries and their recruitment channels. Regional and international powers backing different sides in Sudan. The human stories of mercenaries and civilian victims. The role of external support and sanctions in prolonging the conflict. The impact of the conflict on neighboring countries and regional stability. The legal and moral questions surrounding mercenary participation in war. The future outlook for Sudan and the potential for resolution.

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.