Protests in Colombia

By: Jennifer Lee

The pandemic has been stressful for all of us, but in Colombia, violent protests against President Iván Duque’s tax overhauls, have many citizens living in fear. However, after President Duque revoked his taxes, the protestors have expanded their protests against the government to better healthcare, police violence, prejudice, and more. In response, the government sent armed forces to control the protests. In Cali, police began firing on a crowd of hundreds of protestors and used riot shields and batons to control the protestors. Over 30 people, including protestors and police, have been killed and dozens of people have been reported missing. Colombia’s riot police, also known as ESMAD, has already been accused of human rights abuse and Colombians blame them for much of the police violence that occurs during peaceful protests. President Duque held a televised speech to address Colombia’s current issues with police brutality, prejudice, etc., however many claim Duque’s speech was “too little, too late”. Others say that instead of talking about Colombia's issues, Duque should show Colombians with actions that he truly wants to help them.

The protests are partly caused by the pandemic. Many countries have found themselves with too little money including Colombia. The taxes President Duque imposed to help the economy have only worsened the already large difference between the rich and the poor in Colombia. Most people see the taxes as a way of helping the rich and placing more strain on the lower classes. During Covid, Colombia’s poverty rate has risen by 6.8%. Colombia also has one of the world’s highest death and infection rates.

Some ways to help Colombians are to use the hashtag #SOSColombia to spread information about what is happening in Colombia and to call on congresspeople to aid Colombians.