Colombia Calling - The English Voice in Colombia

This episode of the Colombia Calling podcast explores the complex relationship between Canadian mining interests and Colombia's post-conflict landscape, highlighting historical conflicts, foreign influence, and human rights issues. We speak to Lital Khaikin, a freelance journalist and writer currently based in Montréal, who has deeply investigated this topic. Canadian mining companies have increasingly set their sights on Colombia, attracted by its rich mineral resources. However, this influx has raised significant concerns regarding human rights abuses and environmental degradation. The conversation with Lita Khaikin reveals the intricate web of issues surrounding Canadian mining in Colombia. As we delve deeper into these topics, it becomes clear that raising awareness and holding companies accountable is crucial for the future of affected communities. As listeners, consider how you can stay informed and advocate for change in the extractive industries. Important links: "Blood of Extraction" fernwoodpublishing.ca/book/blood-of-extraction This article by independent journalist Garry Leech come up during research : https://nacla.org/plan-petroleum-putumayo/ The Global Witness report on land defenders killed globally : https://globalwitness.org/en/press-releases/at-least-146-land-and-environmental-defenders-killed-or-disappeared-globally-in-2024/ This is a report about Indigenous peoples in Putumayo by the Observatorio de Derechos Territoriales de los Pueblos Indígenas : https://www.cntindigena.org/situacion-territorial-de-los-pueblos-indigenas-en-el-departamento-del-putumayo/ Two episodes to recommend : "566: Peacebuilding Cannot Happen Without Security: Why the Killings of Social Leaders in Colombia Continues" : https://soundcloud.com/colombiacalling/566-peacebuilding-cannot "580: Truth Demands: Murder, Oil Wars, and Climate Justice" : https://soundcloud.com/colombiacalling/580-truth-demands-murder-oil Article by Lital Khaikin on Putumayo that gets into Indigenous land rights : https://wagingnonviolence.org/2025/04/inside-the-indigenous-land-back-movement-in-colombia/ And this one with NACLA: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/figure/10.1080/10714839.2025.2542084
 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

Explore how Boris Spiwak, CEO of Qash, is transforming Latin America's financial landscape with US dollar accounts using blockchain technology. Discover the impact of stablecoins, regulatory compliance, and the rapid growth in digital financial services across Colombia, Venezuela, and beyond. Learn how stablecoins can provide financial stability in Latin America amidst economic challenges. Hear insights from Boris Spiwak, CEO of Qash, on democratising US dollar access on this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast. In Latin America, financial instability is a pressing issue that affects individuals and businesses alike. With high inflation and currency devaluation, many are searching for reliable solutions to safeguard their wealth. In this episode we'll explore how stablecoins, particularly through the innovative platform Qash, are revolutionising access to US dollar financial services in the region. We'll uncover key insights from my conversation with Boris Spiwak, the CEO and co-founder of Qash, which is making strides in democratising financial access for everyday people. https://www.qash.ai/

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

Colonel John Blashford-Snell is a renowned former British Army officer, explorer, and author, celebrated for his extensive expeditions around the globe. With over 100 expeditions under his belt, he founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society, and he was awarded the CBE for his services in scientific research. On this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, we discuss his various expeditions in Colombia, such as in 1971, Colonel John Blashford-Snell led an expedition through one of the world's most challenging terrains—from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego in. Range Rover. Imagine navigating dense jungles, swamps, and the unknown risks of the Darien Gap! With the help of a dedicated team and local scouts, they faced challenges that would leave many in awe. They encountered everything from treacherous mud to wild animals, all while ensuring the safety and respect of local communities. We also discuss his expeditions to Colombia's Sierra Nevada in 2016, the Colombian Amazon in 2017 and searching for New Caledonia, the former Scottish settlement in Panama, in 1977.

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

Colombia is emerging as a prime destination for incentive travel, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse activities. Think about the possibilities available in Bogota: **Culinary Tours**: Employees can indulge in Colombia's vibrant food scene, learning to cook traditional dishes with local chefs.
**Adventure Activities**: From hiking in the Andes to exploring the Amazon rainforest, Colombia offers thrilling adventures that promote teamwork and bonding.
**Wellness Retreats**: Companies can organize wellness-focused trips that include yoga sessions, meditation, and spa treatments to promote relaxation and mental health.
And so, we talk to Bruce Mclean of Incentive Travel Colombia and BNB Colombia Tours about this new opportunity for Colombia as a destination for incentive travel. What is Incentive Travel? Incentive travel refers to trips that companies offer to employees as a reward for achieving specific goals or milestones. This can include vacations, team-building retreats, or unique experiences designed to foster camaraderie and motivation among teams. It's not just about a break from work; it's a strategic move to enhance productivity and company culture. https://bnbcolombia.com https://incentivetravelcolombia.com

 
The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart: https://harte.substack.com

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl speaks with Emily Hart about her extensive reporting - for a piece in Delayed Gratification magazine -  on the phenomenon of Colombian soldiers fighting in Ukraine. 
 
They discuss the complexities of recruitment, the motivations behind these young men joining foreign conflicts, and the harsh realities they face on the battlefield. 
 
The conversation also touches on the economic factors driving these decisions, the impact on families left behind, and the ethical implications of such recruitment practices. 
 
Emily shares poignant stories from her interviews, highlighting the human cost of war and the psychological toll it takes on soldiers. 
 
The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of these conflicts and the importance of human stories in journalism.
 
UN warns: over 10,000 Colombians recruited as mercenaries in the past decade. 
 

Tune in for this and the Colombia Briefing. 

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