Have freelanced from South America since 2003 for The Wall Street Journal, Washington Times, London Tiimes, Telegraph, UPI, CNN and GRN.2001 - 2002, reported from Afghanistan for UPI on  aftermath of the 9/11 attacks and the Hunt for Bin Laden. Previously freelanced from several locations in Europe ...

FARC's Hidden Arsenal Raises Concerns Amid Colombian Peace Process

05 Apr 2023  |  Fox News  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

The article reports on the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) allegedly concealing parts of their arsenal, including anti-aircraft missiles, despite a peace deal requiring them to surrender their weapons. Intelligence analysts from the U.S. and Colombia suggest that FARC has not disclosed the full extent of their armament and that the disarmament process is poorly controlled. The article also touches on FARC's history of acquiring weapons through the international black market, including a significant purchase from Russian arms dealers. Concerns are raised that FARC's undeclared weapons could enter the international black market and be used by criminal networks. The peace deal allows FARC to retain some arms for security as they transition into a political party.

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Colombian Peace Process Arms Trafficking International Security

Based out of the city of Medellin, I have covered Colombia and Latin America for a wide range of media outlets including the Miami Herald, the Independent, the Toronto Star and Sky News. I work predominantly in print, but have also produced videos, photography and multimedia work and have done TV ...

A cocaine boom could derail Colombia's peace process

01 Oct 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Peace Process

Colombia's peace process with the FARC is threatened by a surge in cocaine production, despite significant US anti-narcotics aid. The 2016 peace agreement has led to a complex situation where coca cultivation has increased due to various economic and social factors. The Colombian government faces challenges in implementing its coca eradication strategy, with armed groups and mafias quickly filling the power vacuum left by the FARC. The government's promises to tackle the coca trade are ambitious but have so far fallen short, risking further conflict and undermining the peace process.

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Colombian Conflict Peace Process Cocaine Trade

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Carmen Blanco is a journalist based in Madrid specialising in gender, migration and human rights. She has covered issues from Nepal, Uganda, India and Colombia on diverse topics including environment, human rights, LGBTI rights and feminism.

Laying down arms to make soap: the struggle of FARC women to achieve peace in Colombia

28 Jul 2021  |  Pikara Magazine  |  Spanish  |  Peace Process

Former FARC combatants in Colombia, like Doris Higuita, have transitioned from warfare to creating eco-friendly soaps with a project called La Marcha. Despite the 2016 peace agreement, critics argue that the Colombian government under Iván Duque has not prioritized its implementation, especially regarding gender equality, which is seen as crucial by entities like ONU Mujeres Colombia. Initiatives like La Marcha and Manifiesta, a fashion brand by Ángela Herrera in partnership with the cooperative Tejiendo Paz, are examples of community efforts promoting gender equality and economic autonomy for women. Colombia remains the country with the highest number of internally displaced people, with women facing increased vulnerability. The national strikes and upcoming elections are seen as opportunities for societal change towards greater equality.

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Colombian Conflict Peace Process Gender Equality

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Jon Bonfiglio is Latin America Correspondent for The Times and also regularly broadcasts on the region for Talk Radio, Talk Sport, LBC, ABC & others. 

Bonfiglio is also Managing Editor of Currents, the Plastic Oceans magazine, and frequently contributes to other international media outlets ...

Does Colombia need an entirely new president?

01 May 2023  |  euronews  |  English  |  Colombian Presidential election

The article discusses the Colombian Presidential election, highlighting Gustavo Petro as the current frontrunner and potential first leftist leader in the country's history. Petro, a former militant guerrilla, is gaining popularity despite his past, indicating a shift in the Colombian public's willingness to engage with its violent history. The piece also touches on Petro's vice-presidential running mate, Francia Márquez, an Afro-Colombian woman who has faced assassination attempts and represents historically oppressed communities. The article further explores the consequences of the 2016 peace process with the FARC, which left a power vacuum now being filled by organized crime, leading to increased deforestation and violence against land rights defenders. The author suggests that peace is the only way forward for Colombia, drawing parallels with South Africa and Northern Ireland, and emphasizing the importance of peace for environmental conservation.

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Peace process in Colombia Colombian Presidential election Political violence in Colombia Deforestation in Colombia

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The Long Road to Reintegration for Colombia's Ex-Combatants

01 Apr 2023  |  NACLA  |  English  |  Colombian peace process

The article discusses the challenges faced by former members of the FARC in Colombia as they attempt to reintegrate into society. Jhon Jairo Riaño, a former combatant, shares his struggles with recurring violent dreams and the difficulty of discussing his past due to the current post-conflict context in Colombia. The Agency for Reincorporation and Normalization (ARN) is highlighted for its role in helping over 57,000 demobilized individuals. The article explores the psychological trauma experienced by 93% of ex-combatants and the societal stigma they face. It also delves into the history of the FARC's influence in rural areas, Riaño's personal reasons for joining, and the broader implications of the reintegration process, including the emotional legacies of war, public perception, and the peace agreement. The article concludes with the ongoing challenges of reconciliation and the importance of forgiveness in the reintegration process.

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Colombian peace process Post-conflict reintegration Psychological trauma of ex-combatants Social stigma and reconciliation

Kimberly Curtis is a journalist currently in Washington, DC. She specializes in US politics, US immigration policy, migration issues, international affairs, humanitarian aid, development and law.

Peace is Breaking Out in Colombia

30 Jun 2017  |  undispatch.com  |  English  |  Peace Process

Colombia has achieved a significant milestone in its peace process with the disarmament of FARC, marking the end of a 52-year conflict. Despite this progress, the country faces ongoing challenges, including legal hurdles, paramilitary violence, and the need to reintegrate former fighters. The peace process, which began after four years of negotiations, has faced setbacks, including a failed referendum and political opposition. The National Liberation Army (ELN) continues violent activities, and right-wing paramilitary groups pose additional threats. The Colombian government must address these issues to achieve lasting peace.

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Colombian Civil War Peace Process Conflict Resolution

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Elizabeth Dickinson is a Deca journalist based in the Arabian Peninsula. Her writing has appeared in The New Yorker, Foreign Policy, The Economist, Politico Magazine, the Christian Science Monitor, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, and The Financial Times, among others. 
Elizabeth was ...

How to Get Colombia’s Peace Process Back on Track

01 Oct 2024  |  www.almendron.com  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

Colombia's peace process faces significant challenges as President Gustavo Petro attempts to revive negotiations with armed groups like the National Liberation Army (ELN) and the Gaitanista Army. Following a recent attack by the ELN, peace talks have been suspended, prompting Petro to adopt a more pragmatic approach focused on incremental agreements rather than comprehensive peace deals. The Colombian government aims to reduce violence and restore state governance in areas controlled by armed groups, but faces obstacles due to the entrenched interests of these groups in illicit economies. The article highlights the need for a coordinated military strategy and partial agreements to protect civilians and build trust. The United States remains skeptical of Petro's Total Peace initiative, but its involvement could influence the direction of peace talks. The article underscores the importance of dialogue and targeted military responses to prevent a return to widespread conflict.

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Colombian Peace Process Conflict in Colombia Guerilla Movements

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Mira Galanova is a multimedia journalist specialising in international affairs, Europe and Latin America in particular. Her work has been published in the BBC, Foreign Policy, New Statesman and EUobserver, among others. Currently based in Madrid, Spain.

Colombia’s rebels are losing patience with peace

18 May 2017  |  Washington Post  |  English  |  Peace Process

The peace process between the Colombian government and the FARC is facing significant challenges, with a portion of the rebels rejecting the agreement and continuing illegal activities. Public confidence is eroding, and political pressure from opponents like Álvaro Uribe complicates the situation. The government needs to take urgent action to reintegrate FARC members into civilian life and ensure their safety to prevent a return to conflict.

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Colombian Conflict Peace Process FARC

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Luis Gallo is a freelance journalist, radio producer and media maker. He currently contributes content for StoryCorps– some which aired on NPR’s Morning Edition. He also produces for Germany's public broadcaster, Deusche Welle, Radio Ambulante and NPR's Latino USA. He occasionally writes for ...

Voices: I Forgive Colombia's Rebels

04 Oct 2016  |  www.nbcnews.com  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

The article reflects on the emotional and political aftermath of Colombia's referendum rejecting a peace agreement with FARC rebels. The author, Luis Gallo, shares his personal journey of forgiveness towards the FARC, who killed his father, and the divided opinions within Colombian society regarding the peace deal. The narrative highlights the generational divide in voting, the influence of political figures like Alvaro Uribe, and the collective trauma experienced by Colombians. Despite the setback, the author remains hopeful for a future peace agreement.

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Colombian Peace Process FARC Rebels Referendum

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I’m Megan Janetsky, a reporter and photographer based in Medellín, Colombia. I covering migration, women's issues and politics across Latin America.

I am a 2019 Pulitzer Center for Crisis Reporting grantee and the Colombia/Venezuela stringer for USA Today. I've worked with The New York Times, ...

As Colombia’s Peace Crumbles, Female Guerrillas Wonder What’s Left for Them

06 Nov 2021  |  Foreign Policy  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

Female ex-combatants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) face significant challenges as the peace process with the Colombian government falters. Despite initial hopes for gender equality and reintegration, traditional gender roles have reasserted themselves, and many women struggle with childcare and economic instability. The peace accords, which included gender-sensitive provisions, have not been fully implemented, leading to violence and discrimination against ex-combatants. The article highlights the personal stories of women like Esmeralda Ranjel, who joined FARC seeking liberation but now find themselves grappling with harsh realities in post-conflict Colombia.

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Colombian Peace Process Gender Equality Reintegration of Ex-Combatants

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Lluis Muñoz Pandiella is a journalist based in Barcelona, Spain.

The House of Peace: A Space for Reconciliation for Victims and Ex-combatants in Colombia

20 Nov 2021  |  www.france24.com  |  Spanish  |  Colombian Peace Process

In Colombia, ex-combatants from the FARC, including Alexander Monroy and Doris Suárez, have established 'La Trocha', a craft beer brand, as part of a reconciliation effort following the 2016 peace process. Despite initial financial support from the government, they criticize its lack of ongoing assistance. The initiative is part of a broader cultural project, La Casa de la Paz, in Bogotá, which serves as a space for reconciliation between victims and ex-combatants. The project also features contributions from social leaders like Virgelina Chará, who uses the space to challenge societal stigmas. The initiative highlights the potential for social integration and peacebuilding through cultural and economic activities.

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Colombian Peace Process Reconciliation Ex-combatants

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I'm a freelance journalist, based in Bogotá, Colombia. I cover human rights, gender equality, social movements, culture and the environment. My work has appeared in The Guardian, Al Jazeera, Vice, NACLA, Women's Media Center, Remezcla and more. 

As a Texas-born Colombian-American, I strive to ...

Following gang truce, Colombia city becomes experiment in peace

26 Dec 2022  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Peace Process

In Buenaventura, Colombia, a truce between rival gangs Shottas and Espartanos has led to a significant reduction in violence, aligning with President Gustavo Petro's 'total peace' strategy. The truce, which has lasted over 100 days, has brought relief to the city's residents, though some skepticism remains about its long-term success. The Colombian government aims to address underlying issues of poverty and inequality, with plans to employ youth as 'peace facilitators' and boost local employment. The peace process in Buenaventura is seen as a potential model for other regions, despite ongoing challenges from other armed groups.

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Colombian Politics Peace Process Gang Violence

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Catalina Oquendo is a colombian journalist based in Buenos Aires. She works for the main newspaper in Colombia during 12 years covering armed conflict, social affairs and cultural affairs. Kiplinger Fellow 2015, won Simon Bolívar Award in Colombia and she was finalist  Online News Association award ...

The party born from the FARC apologizes for the kidnappings committed: 'It was a grave mistake'

15 Sept 2020  |  El País México  |  Spanish  |  Colombian Peace Process

The political party formed from the former FARC guerrilla group has publicly apologized for the kidnappings it committed during Colombia's armed conflict, acknowledging them as grave mistakes. This apology is part of a broader effort towards reconciliation and accountability, as the party seeks to address past wrongdoings and contribute to the peace process. The statement coincides with public discussions on the impact of these crimes, highlighted by the testimony of former kidnapping victim Íngrid Betancourt. The party's leadership, including Rodrigo Londoño, emphasizes their commitment to justice and truth, aiming to prevent such actions from recurring. This move comes amid ongoing challenges in implementing the peace agreements and addressing societal divisions.

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Colombian Peace Process FARC Kidnappings

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Her journalistic debut began in 2007 as a general assignment intern for El Carabobeno news paper. Only one year later, she became news reporter for a local TV station in her hometown Maracay, Venezuela where she covered major events such as Venezuela Presidential Elections, political campaigns, ...

The ELN denies having discussed a bilateral ceasefire with the Government of Gustavo Petro

03 Jan 2023  |  cnnespanol.cnn.com  |  Spanish  |  Peace Process

The ELN has denied reaching a bilateral ceasefire agreement with the Colombian government, contradicting President Gustavo Petro's announcement of a six-month ceasefire starting January 1, 2023. The ELN stated that no such agreement has been discussed and that the proposal will be examined in the next dialogue cycle in Mexico. Petro's announcement included other groups such as Segunda Marquetalia and Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia, aiming to suspend humanitarian impacts and offensive actions, with the possibility of extending the agreement based on negotiation progress.

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Colombian Politics Peace Process

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Joe Parkin Daniels is a journalist based in Bogota, Colombia.

Colombian Guerrillas and Government Vow to De-Escalate — But No Ceasefire Yet

20 Jul 2023  |  www.vice.com  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

The Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) have committed to de-escalating violence, aiming for a bilateral ceasefire. Despite recent tensions, including deadly clashes and infrastructure attacks, both parties are working towards peace, with FARC announcing a unilateral ceasefire. President Juan Manuel Santos remains cautious, assessing the situation over the next four months. The peace talks, held in Havana, seek to end a conflict that has claimed 220,000 lives. Public opinion on the peace process has waned, but recent developments offer hope for resolution.

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Colombian Peace Process FARC Ceasefire Negotiations

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An award-winning multimedia correspondent who has reported from North America, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and his native Britain for more than a decade. Strong editorial judgment and leadership skills with the ability to grasp and distill complex issues with ease and lead digital and broadcast ...

Who will win the 2016 Nobel Peace prize?

06 Oct 2016  |  www.aljazeera.com  |  English  |  Nobel Peace Prize

The article discusses the potential candidates for the 2016 Nobel Peace Prize, highlighting the unexpected rejection of the Colombian peace deal by voters and its impact on the candidacy of Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos and FARC leader Timoleon 'Timochenko' Jimenez. Other notable candidates include Russian activist Svetlana Gannushkina, the White Helmets of Syria, and negotiators of the Iran nuclear deal. The article also explores the selection criteria and historical context of the Nobel Peace Prize, mentioning various past winners and the significance of their contributions.

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Colombian Peace Process Nobel Peace Prize International Relations

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Nicolò Filippo Rosso (b.1985) is an Italian documentary photographer living between South, Central, and North America. After graduating with a degree in Literature at the Universitá Degli Studi Di Torino in Italy, he moved to Latin America, living mainly in Colombia for the past ten years.
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A Separate Peace

03 Oct 2016  |  roadsandkingdoms.com  |  English  |  Colombian Peace Process

Colombia remains divided after rejecting a historic peace deal with the FARC. The author, a Colombian, visited Cauca, a region heavily affected by the conflict, and observed a strong support for the peace deal among locals, despite skepticism about the government's promises. The deal proposed benefits for the FARC in exchange for disarmament and reintegration into civilian life. However, in Bogotá, the capital, there was significant opposition, fueled by former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez and his Centro Democrático party. The 'no' campaign eventually prevailed, leaving the author and many others disheartened by the missed opportunity for peace.

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Colombian Conflict Colombian Peace Process FARC

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Jess Smee is a journalist and writer based in Berlin, Germany. She has more than a decade experience writing and editing on current affairs, news and culture. Among other outlets, she has contributed extensively to The Guardian, Spiegel Online and spent five years reporting for Reuters from London, ...

Will Colombia Vote for its First Ever Left

26 May 2022  |  www.fairobserver.com  |  English  |  Colombian Presidential Election

Colombia's upcoming presidential election could see Gustavo Petro become the country's first left-wing president, amid a backdrop of political polarization, economic challenges, and rising violence. Petro, a former mayor of Bogotá, is running on a platform of addressing inequality and reducing reliance on oil. His running mate, Francia Márquez, could become the first black vice president. The election is seen as a test of Colombia's readiness to shift left after decades of right-wing dominance. The peace process with FARC remains fragile, and the new president's stance will be crucial. The election is part of a broader trend of left-wing victories in Latin America, with implications for the region's political landscape.

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Peace Process Colombian Presidential Election Political Shift

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JIMMY VILLAREAL is a journalist based in Bogotá, Colombia.
Transmisiones en Vivo para Radio de Habla hispana - Live Broadcasts for Spanish-Speaking Radio
Locución, doblaje en español - Voiceover, dubbing in Spanish
Noticias y acontecimientos de ultima hora - News and events of last minute
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Cady Voge is a journalist based in Berkeley, United States.