All Content: Colombia

Justice for Colombia's San José Peace Community?

Video
On Thursday, May 16, WOLA hosted a discussion with renowned Colombian human rights lawyer Jorge Molano. The full event video is available here.

Colombian President Santos, OAS Chief Insulza to Present New Study on Drug Policy Alternatives

Review was Mandated by Heads of State at 2012 Summit of the Americas
News
Report will explore alternatives to the current drug policy regime.

Press Conference on Labor Rights in Colombia

Video
At 9 a.m. Friday, April 26, WOLA Senior Associate Gimena Sánchez-Garzoli was joined by Senator Alexander López Maya to discuss labor rights in Colombia.

Colombian Senators, Labor Unions, and Civil Society to Participate in Senate hearing on Labor Rights in Colombia

Livestreamed Press Conference Tomorrow will Address Lack of Implementation of U.S.-Colombia Labor Action Plan
News
Colombian Senator Alexander López Maya and WOLA Senior Associate Gimena Sánchez-Garzoli will host a press conference on Friday, April 23 on the status of labor rights in Colombia.

U.S. Congress Supports Peace in Colombia

Analysis & Commentary
In a letter to Secretary of State John Kerry, 62 members of Congress call for U.S. policy to support peace with justice as the country continues negotiations to end its internal conflict.

Death Threat Underscores Need for Concrete Action

Analysis & Commentary
A recent death threat against labor leaders and human rights defenders underscores the need for U.S. and Colombian authorities to take action to assure this recent threat does not come to fruition.

A Dismal Anniversary

U.S.-Colombia Labor Action Plan Still Lacking Implementation Two Years Later
Analysis & Commentary
Two years after the passage of the U.S.-Colombia Labor Action Plan, Colombia's workers continue to suffer from labor violations and anti-union violence.

Rights of Colombian Indigenous Groups under Threat

Armed groups, mining projects threaten safety and autonomy of indigenous peoples
Analysis & Commentary
In a letter to Congressional foreign policy aides, WOLA outlines the continued threats faced by Colombia's indigenous peoples.

Letter to Colombian President on the Security Situation of Rep. Iván Cepeda

NGO letter expresses concern, requests protection
Analysis & Commentary
In a letter to the Colombian president, WOLA and other NGOs ask the government to provide security for Rep. Cepeda and his staff following news of a threat to his life.

Colombia Peace Process Update (March 27, 2013)

A progress report on the dialogues
Analysis & Commentary
A progress report on the dialogues taking place in Havana between Colombia's government and the FARC guerrillas. Main issues: finishing the land and rural development agenda item, moderate optimism about the timetable, support from the U.S. and neighboring governments.

Will You Support Peace in Colombia?

Ask Your Representative to Sign a Dear Colleague Letter Promoting Peace in Colombia
Analysis & Commentary
The letter, co-sponsored by Reps. McGovern and Schakowsky, calls on the Department of State to support the Colombia peace process and calls for the implementation of aid and policies that promote a lasting peace.

An Ongoing Search for Justice and Security in Colombia’s Afrodescendent Communities

Video
In this taped event, local, national, and international leaders share their experiences in the fight for justice and security for Afro-Colombian communities.

New Study Compares Drug Sentencing across Latin America

Non-Violent Drug Offenders Often Face Greater Penalties than Violent Criminals
Analysis & Commentary
Drug crimes are punished disproportionately higher than much more violent crimes, a new study from our colleagues at DeJusticia shows.

Colombia Peace Process Update (March 8, 2013)

A progress report on the dialogues
Analysis & Commentary
A progress report on the dialogues taking place in Havana between Colombia's government and the FARC guerrillas. Main issues: progress at the negotiating table, the FARC's capture and release of two policemen, declining public support, a visit from members of Colombia's Congress, and the death of Hugo Chávez.

The Colombian Government Must Take Clear, Concrete Steps to Protect Human Rights

In a Letter to the Minister of the Interior, WOLA Calls for Action
Analysis & Commentary
WOLA expresses concern over the continued violence against human rights defenders, Afro-Colombians, and trade unionists in Colombia and looks to the Interior Ministry for concrete results.

Colombian Senator and Union Leaders in DC as Colombia FTA Nears Anniversary

Threats Against Labor Activists on the Rise in Colombia
News
Colombian labor delegation in DC denounces deplorable labor rights situation in Colombia.

Continued Labor Violations, Empty Promises

Video
On February 12, WOLA hosted Colombian Senator Alexander López Maya and a panel of union leaders as they explored continued obstacles facing Colombia's workers and recommendations for progress. This event was in Spanish.

Livestream of "Continued Labor Violations, Empty Promises in Colombia"

Video
On February 12 at 12:30 p.m. EST, WOLA will host Colombian Senator Alexander Lopez Maya and a panel of union leaders as they explore continued obstacles facing Colombia's workers and recommendations for progress. The event will be livestreamed beginning at 12:30 p.m. EST. This event will be in Spanish.

Racism, Violence continue for Afro-Colombians

WOLA Letter Updates Congressional Black Caucus to Serious Situation
Analysis & Commentary
Racism and outright violence continue to plague Afro-Colombians, WOLA explained in a letter to the U.S. Congressional Black Caucus.

U.S. Congress Sends Letter to Colombian President on the Protection of Land Rights Activists

Analysis & Commentary
In a letter to the president of Colombia, U.S. Congressman express concern over recent threats against human rights defenders.