Latest News

Petro wants to revive Bolívar’s dream of a 21st-Century Gran Colombia

By Richard Emblin - May 25, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro renewed calls to rebuild Gran Colombia as a 21st-century regional alliance. Speaking in Ecuador, he proposed integration with Venezuela and Panama, advocating for shared citizenship, digital infrastructure, and energy cooperation, while warning of rising authoritarianism and foreign interference in Latin America.

Violin Contest of Bogotá spotlights Colombian composition with Jury of virtuosos

By Richard Emblin - May 13, 2025

Bogotá launches its first International Violin Competition, offering generous prizes and star-studded global jury. Twenty finalists will compete this November, with free masterclasses and donated violins benefiting young Colombian talents. Deadline for entries: May 31.

Bogotá’s ARTBO Weekend returns with expansive city circuits and focus on Contemporary Art

By Richard Emblin - April 23, 2025

ARTBO Weekend returns to Bogotá from April 25–27 with 86 exhibition spaces, six city circuits, and over 150 free events, transforming the capital into a hub of contemporary art, design, and editorial innovation

Basque Ambassadors 2025: Eight Chefs redefine Euskadi’s culinary frontiers

By Richard Emblin - April 10, 2025

The Basque Ambassadors Awards 2025 tributed eight chefs who are more than culinary artists but also agents for social change. Through their dedication to tradition, innovation, and sustainability, they redefine the global gastronomic landscape, one dish at a time.

Respected Italian biologist Alessandro Coatti found dismembered near Santa Marta

By Richard Emblin - April 9, 2025

Italian molecular biologist Alessandro Coatti, 42, was found dismembered near Santa Marta, Colombia, after traveling through South America. A former senior officer at the UK’s Royal Society of Biology, his death is being investigated for possible links to illegal armed groups operating in the Sierra Nevada.

Bogotá in Top Three of Latin America for Foreign Direct Investment

By Richard Emblin - April 4, 2025

With 105 foreign investment projects in 2024, the Colombian capital stands out as a magnet for expansion in services, retail, and technology. Great connectivity for the business community, world-class cultural events and a highly-skilled workforce has secured Bogotá as a trusted destination for investors.

Over 1,200 indigenous protesters occupy Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar

By Richard Emblin - April 3, 2025

Some 1,200 Indigenous people from Colombia’s southwestern departments have gathered peacefully in Bogotá’s Plaza de Bolívar for a third consecutive day, calling for a meeting with President Gustavo Petro to discuss violence in their territories and the government’s unfulfilled commitments.

Carlos Lehder’s sudden return to Colombia revives legacy of Medellin Cartel

By Richard Emblin - March 31, 2025

Carlos Lehder, one of the founding leaders of the Medellín Cartel and a key figure in the history of cocaine trafficking, was arrested by Colombian authorities upon his arrival from Germany on Friday, March 28.

Colombia’s gas agenda at risk with US tariffs on Venezuelan energy imports

By Richard Emblin - March 25, 2025

The U.S. objective to impose secondary tariffs on all countries purchasing Venezuelan oil and gas has stalled President Petro’s plans for greater energy integration. Petro has urged Ecopetrol to explore Qatari gas imports amid rising domestic shortages and potential trade tensions with Washington.

SER: The Hat Couture of Medellín designer Andrea Agudelo

By Richard Emblin - March 24, 2025

Designer Andrea Agudelo launches SER, a hat couture brand blending fashion, art, and mindfulness. Her debut collection, Born from Light, features handcrafted headwear symbolizing identity and transformation. SER will expand globally through gallery installations and a bespoke atelier in Medellín.

Petro’s Civic Day rallies thousands, but Senate rejects contentious Labor Reform

By Richard Emblin - March 18, 2025

Thousands marched in Bogotá on Petro’s “Civic Day” to pressure Congress into passing his labor reform, but the Senate rejected the bill. Petro condemned lawmakers, warning of a referendum push as political tensions between his administration and Congress escalate.

Bogotá gripped by severe weather as Aerocivil takes charge of aviation meteorology

By Richard Emblin - March 14, 2025

Bogotá faces severe weather with relentless rain and flooding, while Colombia’s Civil Aeronautical Agency takes over aviation meteorology from Ideam. Experts warn of risks, but Aerocivil assures air safety, emphasizing compliance with international standards amid broader transport sector reforms.

Colombia’s Petro calls for referendum to let “the people decide” reforms

By Richard Emblin - March 12, 2025

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for a national referendum on his unpopular reforms after lawmakers shelved the labor reform in the Senate. Critics claim the move undermines democracy and the autonomy of Congress, with concerns a referendum sets a dangerous precedent for governing by a populist decree.

ELN commanders claim Petro’s Total Peace is becoming “Total War”

By Richard Emblin - March 10, 2025

ELN commanders in Colombia claim President Petro’s “Total Peace” policy is escalating the conflict in Catatumbo, accusing the government of shifting to military action rather than peace talks. The violence has displaced tens of thousands, with no resolution in sight.

Long lost Spanish Fort discovered in the depths of Cartagena bay

By Richard Emblin - March 6, 2025

A long-lost Spanish fort, San Matías, has been rediscovered submerged in Cartagena Bay, Colombia. Built in 1567 to defend the city, the fort was dismantled in 1626. The discovery opens new insights into the region’s colonial defense system.

Trump Tariffs: A looming crisis for Colombian farmers and women workers

By Richard Emblin - March 4, 2025

U.S. tariffs on Colombian agricultural exports, including coffee and flowers, threaten thousands of jobs, particularly for women in rural areas. The peso faces devaluation, and China may seize the opportunity to expand its influence as Colombia seeks alternative trade partners.