Another voice for Colombia


50th Anniversary of Semanario VOZ
               
 
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"Dozens of journalists have been murdered, threatened, attacked or forced to flee their homes for the 'crime' of exposing the human rights abuses that go on daily in Colombia. Those who carry out such abuses want to silence those who speak out. We cannot allow those voices of protest to be silenced. Voz gives them a voice. OtraVoz makes their voice louder". Jeremy Dear, General Secretary, National Union of Journalists
  LATEST NEWS APRIL 08
  NATIONAL NEWS
  Uribe and Rafael Correa THE MISTRUST CONTINUES

Following Colombia’s incursion into Ecuadorian territory on March 1st, when it bombed and attacked a guerrilla encampment by land, killing FARC lead negotiator and spokesperson Raul Reyes, relations with its’ neighbours were looking critical. Although Uribe’s government claimed the attack as a victory for their Democratic Security policy, it soon became clear that internationally it was seen otherwise. A summit of the Rio group of countries condemned Colombia’s actions, but managed to avert a diplomatic crisis. However, Colombia remains isolated within the Latin American region, with the US as it’s only ally.
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  THE VICTIMS ARE NOT ALONE

Exceeding all expectations, thousands of Colombians came out onto the streets in at least 21 cities throughout the country, to demand truth, justice and complete reparation for the victims of State terrorism and its’ paramilitary strategy. The same occurred in more than 100 cities around the world, including London, sending a warning to the Uribe government and the paramilitaries that neither Colombian society nor the international community are prepared to tolerate either the crimes against humanity that continue to occur without punishment, nor that the barbarities committed still remain in impunity. Luis Jairo Ramirez, one of the organisers of the days’ events, called it an “historical landmark” that after so many years of impunity, “thousands and thousands” of people throughout Colombia and the rest of the world had come together to protest. Bogota was the epicentre of the marches, where thousands passed through the central streets towards the Plaza de Bolivar, which couldn’t contain everyone. Protesters condemned the more than 3,500 massacres, the displacement of more than 4 million people and the theft of at least 6 million hectares of their land, the thousands of disappearances, and the thousands of extra-judicial executions perpetrated by State forces.
 
  THE INDESTRUCTIBLE COMPUTERS OF RAUL REYES

Following the assassination of FARC guerrilla leader Raul Reyes, the Colombian military apparently retrieved four laptop computers from his encampment which the government claimed contain evidence of support for the “terrorists” from other Latin American governments, although many IT experts believe it impossible that the bombing which destroyed everything else, left the computers intact. Allegedly, there was evidence that Hugo Chavez of Venezuela funded the FARC $300 million, and that the guerrilla were obtaining uranium for terrorist purposes. These claims have been refuted, and the attempts to slur other governments in the region have been discredited. A photo published by the Colombian media allegedly depicting Reyes with Ecuador’s Interior Minister Gustavo Larrea was later proved to be of an Argentinian communist leader. Larrea does not deny meeting Reyes; they had discussed the possible release of Ingrid Betancourt, the FARC’s most high profile hostage, and in fact Reyes was in Ecuador for further talks when he was killed. It is not denied that Reyes had dealings with many international figures, but these were with the aim of achieving a negotiated political solution to the Colombian conflict, a process which in its’ own government will not engage. Recent events beg the question, which side are the terrorists?
 
  Ivan Rios ASSASSINATION OF IVAN RIOS; GOVERNMENT ESTABLISHES DEATH PENALTY

The violent death of Ivan Rios, member of the FARC leadership, has opened up a debate as to whether the government, in its’ counter-insurgency battle, has established the death penalty, prohibited by the Constitution. A guerrilla soldier known as “Rojas” killed the undefended insurgent leader and his partner, and brought a hand as proof of the killing in order to claim the five thousand million peso reward. The subsequent spectacle saw government officials present the macabre offering before the media as a trophy of Uribe’s war, whilst at the same time presenting “Rojas” as an example for guerrilla close to other FARC leaders to imitate. However, many commentators and prominent jurists have objected to the reward, as it was intended to be for information, and does not establish a death penalty. Furthermore, they say “Rojas” must answer before the Courts for the two murders, as no-one may take justice into their own hands. Some media are talking of the decline of the FARC, but other analysts believe the decline is in government methods, which breach all humane and ethical limits. Uribe has defended the principle that in order to win the war, every procedure is valid and justifiable.
 
  URIBE PLANS SECOND RE-ELECTION

The “U” party in Colombia has presented over 250,000 signatures proposing a constitutional reform that would enable President Uribe to seek a second re-election to office. The initiative is supported by opinion polls that show an increased popularity for Alvaro Uribe. However, his position in Congress has been weakened as many of his supporters are already behind bars for ‘para-politics’, links with paramilitary groups, with more having been recently revealed to have relationships with paramilitary ringleaders.
 
  HOPE FOR THE FUTURE?

VOZ Editor Carlos Lozano suggests that a way forward to peace is still possible, with the aid of the international community.
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  THE GOVERNMENT DOES NOT WANT A HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

VOZ Interview with Senator Piedad Cordoba Liberal Party Senator Piedad Cordoba has become a national symbol of hope for a humanitarian exchange of prisoners, as a first step towards a peace agreement in Colombia. With great courage she has battled against those one could call the “hidden enemies of peace” within the Presidential Office. She has faced threats, media attacks and conspiracies in Congress, and together with Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez, has responded to the call from Colombian people for a negotiated political solution to the internal armed conflict. She reflects the popular interest that opposes those who insist on continuing the confrontation.
Read...
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  Alvaro Uribe and Jose Obdulio Gaviria RETALIATION BY THE REGIME

The success of the 6th March demonstrations came at a cost, after Presidential advisor Jose Obdulio Gaviria announced via the media that the days’ events were being called by the FARC. Although social organisations demanded that the government retract the claims, it never happened, and gave free reign to paramilitary groups to then threaten and attack organisers, and in four cases, assassinate trade union leaders involved. One of these was Carlos Burbano, vice-president of the health workers union Anthoc, who had previously received threats due to his trade union work, and who was leader of the demonstration in San Vincente, Caqueta. Previously, the National Police Commander Oscar Naranjo had told a press conference that on the retrieved computer belonging to Raul Reyes, they had found an invitation from the FARC to participate in the 6th March demonstrations in Caqueta. Paramilitaries known as the Black Eagles have been threatening both national and international human rights organisations. These groups have filed reports with the UN and the Inter- American Human Rights Commission, warning them of the situation, and requesting protection for individuals at high risk. They have also petitioned President Uribe for the resignation of Jose Obdulio Gaviria.
 
  UN TELLS COLOMBIA TO STOP EXTRA-JUDICIAL EXECUTIONS

In its’ annual report released on 8th March, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Louise Arbour, called on the Colombian government to stop the extra-judicial executions being carried out by members of the Armed Forces, and to dismantle paramilitary structures. “The Colombian office continued to receive complaints of extra-judicial executions attributed to State forces. A common characteristic of the cases reported is to present the victims as killed in combat”. The report is critical of the fact that the investigations against those involved are carried out by the military themselves. Regarding the paramilitary, the High Commissioner says that despite the argument of the Colombian government that they have demobilized at least 31 criminals, these structures remain in operation. “The High Commissioner insists that the Ministry of Defence and the Attorney General implement effective measures to dismantle all forms of illegal armed groups that have formed since the demobilization, and to properly dismantle the political and economic structures of the demobilized paramilitary groups”. The document also condemns the assassination of trade unionists, human rights defenders and journalists.
 
  MATERNITY CARE IS VITAL

Two Senators have proposed a law change in Congress that will classify maternity care as emergency care in order for Colombian women to receive free provision under the State health system. Gloria Ines Ramirez and Elsa Gladis Cifuentes argue that potential complications throughout the ante-natal, birth, and post-natal periods can lead to serious physical and mental problems for both mother and child, and can even result in the death of either or both. Early detection and treatment are vital, and for this reason, all maternity care should be provided by the State free of charge. The bill also calls for women to be given the option to deliver their babies in an upright position, recognising the physiological advantages to both mother and child, and the cultural preferences of the many indigenous women in Colombia. Current obstetric practice forces women to deliver lying down, but the Senators are calling for delivery rooms to be adapted to enable women to choose how to give birth.
 
  David Ravelo I REFUSE…

Human Rights defender and political activist David Ravelo Crespo has received death threats because of his work. This powerful statement demonstrates the commitment and humanity of government opponents in Colombia, who are determined to achieve a fair and peaceful society.
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  TRADE UNION NEWS
  EMPLOYMENT HARRASSMENT CONTINUES

The present law classifying harassment at work as a crime in Colombia is inadequate, according to Senator Gloria Inez Ramirez. “Workers do not have sufficient employment security that they can exercise their employment rights without fear of reprisal, which is usually the immediate termination of their contracts.” “The most evident and common form of harassment in this country is the pressure put on workers by their employers, who threaten them with dismissal, the termination or non-renewal of their contract, or that the company will use temporary agencies or workers co-operatives if they don’t tow the line. This leaves the worker permanently anxious about the loss of their job and means of support for their family. The law currently only protects workers with a formal permanent contract, which is very few people given the high level of casual and subcontracted employment in the country, and the level of unemployment. Factors such as these, the violations against trade union freedom and the ease with which a worker can be sacked without just cause, all influence the pressure on employees. The Senator is proposing a Labour Statute to protect workers by ensuring the full application of their constitutional rights. And although the persecution of workers who organise themselves in trade unions is a constant in the majority of companies, many workers still recognise the importance of trade unions and despite obstacles from employers, continue to organise in this way. In some businesses, gains have been achieved as a result; according to trade union leaders, it is the only way to defend and win employment rights.
 
  LATEST NEW MARCH 08
  NATIONAL NEWS
  FARC LEADER ASSASSINATED

FARC leader Raul Reyes and at least 17 of his fellow guerrilla were killed in a bombing raid by the Colombian air force on Ecuadorian territory, on 1st March. As a result, President Correa of Ecuador, and President Chavez of Venezuela have broken diplomatic ties with Colombia and deployed state troops to their Colombian borders. Reports from Ecuador demonstrate that President Uribe lied to Correa, claiming that the incursion was necessary in the heat of fighting. Evidence suggests that four aerial bombs were dropped on the sleeping guerrilla who didn’t even have their arms to hand. It also appears likely that US intelligence was used for the operation. Raul Reyes was the leading public face of the FARC, and was responsible for hostage release negotiations, including that of four ex-Congress members released recently. His assassination puts future hostage and peace negotiations in serious jeopardy.
Read interview with Raul Reyes (Otravoz Feb 08)
 
  SIMON TRINIDAD; A LESSON IN DIGNITY

FARC guerrilla commander Simon Trinidad has been sentenced by the US Federal Court to 60 years imprisonment, for his alleged role in the kidnap of 3 US citizens who’s spy plane crashed in southern Colombian jungle in 2002. Although it was shown that Trinidad was in Ecuador at the time, the defence witnesses and evidence were rejected by Judge Royce Lamberth, who declared Trinidad guilty of a terrorist act. The judgement is being seen as revenge against the FARC for the kidnapping, and was celebrated by the Colombian government, who had agreed Trinidad’s extradition to the US, and provided well-rehearsed witnesses to the trial, consisting of deserters and army and police informants. Two previous trials held against him collapsed due to the paucity of evidence. The long sentence handed down appears to take no account of the 3 US airmen, who remain in FARC captivity, and whose fate depends on the liberation of Simon Trinidad and his colleague Sonia, according to observers in Bogota and Washington.
more...
 
  PLAN BALBOA; NOT ONLY AN ATTACK ON CHAVEZ

South American intelligence sources have warned of the existence of a “Balboa Plan” which would involve a military provocation by Colombia on the border zones with Venezuela, as a pretext for attacks by NATO in order to occupy the country, reverse the revolutionary processes in progress and eliminate President Chavez. Chavez’ recent reference to plans to assassinate him derives not from paranoia, as the Colombian press are claiming, but from knowledge of previous similar plans designed by the CIA. It seems likely that US sights will also be fixed on other countries in the region who do not submit to the American dictate, and as such Evo Morales of Bolivia and Rafael Correa of Ecuador may also be targets. However, Washington doesn’t seem to be planning to make any direct attack, but rather to use it’s only Latin American ally, Colombia, for it’s purposes. The Colombian media are already busy attacking Chavez on any pretext, from being a cocaine user to being head of the FARC, all with the aim of predisposing public opinion to an attack on their neighbouring country and it’s leader.
 
  DEMOBILIZATIONS ARE A FARCE

A former FARC commander who deserted and handed himself over to the State Army, has told VOZ that the government themselves orchestrated “demobilizations” of guerrilla soldiers. In an operation planned last year, groups of ex-guerrilla set up around the country would ‘hand themselves in’ with the aim of demonstrating a supposed division within the FARC. The most important group was in Valle de Cauca, where the army had discovered 11 regional politicians were being held by rebels. Special forces would rescue the hostages, then make it appear that guerrilla deserters had decided to hand them over. However, the operation went wrong, and as a result the 11 hostages in Valle de Cauca were killed. The deserter who spoke to VOZ now fears for his safety and is in hiding; some of those involved in the operation with him have died in suspicious circumstances, the remainder are targets for both sides.
more...
 
  MINISTER IN THE WRONG PLACE

A photograph taken in December 2007 and posted on the Foreign office website shows smiling Foreign Minister Kim Howells surrounded by soldiers of the High Mountain Brigade in Sumapaz, who have been held responsible for the torture and killing of trade unionists. Also pictured is the head of the Colombian army General Mario Montoya who is known for having links with paramilitary forces. Tony Woodley, joint secretary of UNITE, called for an end to British support for the Colombian military.and told the Guardian, who published the photo; “Colombia is the world’s leader slaughterhouse for trade unionists, and it defies belief that a British minister should be cuddling up – literally, judging by the photographs – with the perpetrators”
 
  FOCUS ON CHILDREN
  CHILDREN EXPLOITED IN LABOUR MARKET

The Ministry of Social Protection has reported that more than a million Colombian children are being exploited in the labour market. Nearly 400,000 children and adolescents work in the agricultural sector, nearly 350,000 in commercial businesses, the majority of whom work on the streets. In hundreds of municipalities, children work in mining, in conditions of extreme poverty. A Unicef report last year stated that more than 2 million children and adolescents are being exploited in Colombia, largely through sexual exploitation, forced recruitment to paramilitary groups, unregulated mining, agricultural work and street trading.
 
  THOUSANDS DIE FROM LACK OF CLEAN WATER

At least 20, 000 children died in Colombia between 2004 and 2006 due to diseases caused by contaminated drinking water, according to a report given to State Planners by the Procurator General, Edgardo Maya. Some 13 million of the population do not have access to clean drinking water. Maya stressed that these children’s deaths could have been avoided if clean water had been supplied. Money promised for investment into basic sanitation projects for children is still awaited at regional and municipal level.
 
  LATEST NEWS, FEBRUARY 08
  NATIONAL NEWS
  President Hugo Chavez with freed hostages Clara Rojas and Consuelo Gonzalez HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

On January 10th, FARC guerrillas released hostages Clara Rojas and Consuelo Gonzalez, both Colombian politicians held by the rebels since 2002. The release was negotiated by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, and has been seen as a show of willing on the part of the insurgency to negotiate with the government over a humanitarian exchange of prisoners, as a first step to a Peace Agreement. However there is no sign that President Uribe is likely to move from his current position; he favours “blood and fire” military rescues of the FARC hostages. On his return from a short European tour last week, Uribe ordered a military siege on the FARC, despite having told European leaders he was aiming for a humanitarian exchange. In July 2007, eleven FARC hostages were all killed in what was believed to have been one such military rescue attempt.
 
  Colombian President Alvaro Uribe 4th FEBRUARY MARCHES

Monday 4th February saw large demonstrations across Colombia protesting against the FARC, with people wearing T-shirts and carrying banners that read No More Kidnappings, No More Lies, No More Deaths, No More FARC. Many protestors had organized themselves through Facebook, but the impetus came from the government and the media. It is likely that Uribe will view these marches as a mandate for his hard-line policies, including that of military rescue of guerrilla hostages.
The March of the 4th - Why I Won’t be Marching - by Carlos Lozano
 
  Raul Reyes INTERVIEW WITH FARC LEADER RAUL REYES:

“WE CONFIRM OUR POLITICAL WILL FOR THE EXCHANGE” Raul Reyes talks about the release of Clara and Consuelo, explaining that state military attacks delayed the handover of the women to President Chavez, because of the danger to both guerrilla and hostages. He says that this demonstrates the importance of a demilitarised zone for the humanitarian exchange to take place. The arrangement brokered by Chavez included Rojas’ son Emmanuel, (who was born in captivity), but it transpired he had already been fostered out by the guerrilla at the age of 8 months. Reyes explains that this was done for the child’s safety. He says that the proposal by Chavez to reclassify the FARC as a “Beligerent Force” rather than as terrorists, is welcome and appropriate. Reyes confirms that the FARC are committed to working towards a humanitarian exchange, and “will do everything it takes to free the prisoners, starting with the guerrillas who have been unfairly deprived of their freedom and the right to fight for social justice in their country”.
Read interview
 
  VOZ SPECIAL REPORT from El Buen Pastor Women’s prison, Bogota

They are prisoners, accused of ‘rebellion’. They are the other face of the humanitarian exchange, rarely reported about compared to the FARC hostages. But to hear their story is to better understand why the guerrilla continue to hold onto their captives. Prisoner “E” explains that less than half of these women are part of the insurgency; the others are either political activists or just happen to live in guerrilla controlled areas. A large proportion are awaiting trial and sentence; of these, many will be set free after up to 4 years in prison. Conditions for political prisoners and their children are significantly worse than for other prisoners. Children under the age of 3 stay with their mothers behind bars. At 3 years old, they are handed over either to other relatives or to the Colombian Family Welfare Institute.
The Hostage Release as Seen From Prison
The Emmanuels of Buen Pastor
Justiceforcolombia.org
 
  A RETURN TO PERMANENT SEIGE

President Uribe and his government are proposing to formalise their “Democratic Security” policy in Colombian Law. Although Uribe denies the existence of the internal conflict, he has vastly increased Defence spending for 2008 to the detriment of education, health and social policy. Defence has reached a record level of 6.5% of the GDP, higher than the US or any of the NATO countries. The proposed Law of Security and Defence will serve to keep the country in a state of war, restrict personal freedoms and lead to a militarisation of everyday life. It will further endanger any political opponent of the government; the President’s office refutes the need to apply International Human Rights for civilians. They reject the principle of distinction between combatants and non-combatants, and instead they identify trade unionists, left-wing leaders, NGO activists, and journalists, anyone who dares to criticise the regime, as being terrorists or guerrilla allies. Political analysts have said “If the FARC didn’t exist, they’d have to invent them”.
Full Article by Carlos Lozano
 
  TRADE UNION NEWS
  The incubators in the neo-natal ICU, abandoned and covered in dust. 150 MATERNITY WORKERS AWAIT REDUNDANCY

The nationally renowned Maternity Institute in the capital closed its’ doors to women in 2006. After a long history of funding problems, the specialist unit was eventually liquidated. However 150 staff remain, still awaiting redundancy payments. On the 15th January they defended the building from police, who were attempting to take over a part of the listed building, sold by the liquidator to a Cancer Institute. The workers maintain that the sale is illegal until their employment situation is resolved.
Read More
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  The leadership of the Military Forces, with the President at the head, must answer for continuous human rights violations INCREASE IN ARMY’S HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES

The VOZ team have been particularly saddened to learn of the recent assassinations of two opposition activists, one killed by the Army, the other probably by paramilitaries. Israel Gonzalez, a trade unionist and Polo member, was shot in his own home by members of the Army on 24th January, in Tolima. On 19th January, Youth activist Alirio Quinonez was killed by paramilitary assassins in Guasdualito, Venezuela. He had fled over the border to escape paramilitary threats and Army harassment because of his political activities.
More reports of serious human rights abuses from Voz.
 
  This month,

the majority of these abuses have been perpetrated by the national Army, and this seems to be the trend; this is the Army that is given financial and strategic aid by the British government…. If you haven’t already signed the Justice for Colombia e-petition calling on Gordon Brown to freeze military aid to Colombia, please do so here.
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Colombia/
 
  LATEST NEWS, JANUARY 08
  NATIONAL NEWS
  BAD END TO 2007 FOR URIBE

2007 did not end well for Colombia’s President Uribe. There has been widespread criticism, both nationally and internationally, for his decision to break off the Venezuelan President’s mediation for a peace agreement. The humanitarian exchange of prisoners now looks unlikely, as Uribe has destroyed the confidence of the guerrilla that had been fostered by Chavez. Expensive government lobbying internationally has failed to impress anyone, and has only led to repeated calls for peace in Colombia, condemnation of the war, and demands for a negotiated exchange. He did himself no favours by telling a delegation from the International Labour Organization that their agreements were “guidelines” rather than commitments to improve Colombia’s record on trade union rights. The “demobilization” of the paramilitary forces has been shown to be a farce; rather than being dismantled, these groups have been restructured, only possible with the collusion of the authorities, politicians and businesses. More of Uribe’s political associates are in prison, and Uribe’s alliance with narco-traffickers has been demonstrated. The government and businesses who are making large profits from the growing economy, have angered workers by refusing to properly increase salaries or address the needs of the most deprived sectors of society. 2008 looks set to see strong organized protest, demanding peace, democracy and social justice in Colombia
 
  HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

In a move that illustrated the progress made by President Hugo Chavez towards a negotiated solution to the Colombian conflict, the FARC released video footage proving that 16 hostages, including the three US citizens held, and politician Ingrid Betancourt, are alive. However, the two guerrilla envoys bringing the video to Senator Piedad Cordoba were intercepted and arrested by State Intelligence officers. Clearly the Senator is now under close surveillance. FARC leader Ivan Marquez said that this means the guerilla will not risk the safety of any more of their members to bring proof that other hostages survive. They had planned to do so for the benefit of the families, but once again Uribe has sabotaged the process. The FARC now do not believe that the humanitarian exchange will be possible under the current government.
Lessons of a Clash - Alvaro Vasquez
 
  FBI THREATENS POLITICAL PRISONERS

Three FBI agent visited El Buen Pastor prison in Bogota on 4th December, in order to interview the two women FARC guerrillas who were captured whilst attempting to deliver the video of hostages to Senator Piedad Cordoba. The women refused to be interviewed without their lawyers being present. They were later called for a meeting with the prison governor; when they arrived, they found the three US agents present, who started an interrogation as to the whereabouts of the three Americans currently held by the FARC. When the women refused to answer without their lawyers, they were threatened with extradition to the States. Senator Piedad Cordoba has threatened to represent the two guerrillas, as this delicate situation could have a profound impact on the future of the humanitarian agreement.
 
  COURT RULES; THE FARC ARE NOT TERRORISTS

Despite lobbying efforts by the Colombian government, activists of the Danish group Fighters + Lovers, arrested for selling T-shirts that allegedly “glamorised terrorism”, have been freed following an important court ruling. Proceeds from the sale of the T-shirts, confiscated by the police, are intended for the Colombian FARC, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. The Court recognized that both movements are armed freedom fighters, but said that this armed resistance cannot be defined as terrorism.
 
  MAYOR OF BOGOTA NOT RECOGNISED BY URIBE

Samuel Moreno of the left coalition party the PDA, and recently elected the new Mayor of Bogota, has been visiting Europe, meeting the Mayor of Paris Bertrand Delante, along with the children of guerrilla hostage Ingrid Betancourt. Although Moreno is meeting senior figures internationally, in Bogota President Uribe refuses to talk with him, or recognise him as the elected leader of the capital.
 
  TRADE UNION NEWS
  FAILURE TO AGREE OVER MINIMUM WAGE

Annual negotiations to decide national minimum wage increases have failed to reach agreement. On 14th December, the government and the business sector made a final offer of 6%, slightly above the projected inflation rate of 5.41%, but significantly less than the 11% proposed by the unions. However, the Workers side are demanding in addition, that the 9 million casual workers in Colombia, mostly earning less than the minimum wage, are employed on proper contracts attracting at least the statutory minimum salary. The government and employers are arguing that they cannot afford this; that the “flexible” workforce is essential to a healthy economy and low unemployment. Without proper negotiations on this issue, the Workers side say they cannot reach an agreement. Government and business sector negotiators reacted aggressively in the meeting, and will most likely implement the 6% increase without formal agreement. The Workers side are starting to build for a series of protests in 2008, aiming to achieve fair terms and conditions for all Colombian workers.
 
  EVALUATION OF 2007

VOZ Trade Union Editor Juan Carlos Hurtado evaluates the year for Colombian trade unions, and the challenges ahead in 2008.
Read Article
 
  80 YEARS OF COCA-COLA IN COLOMBIA

Coca-Cola has now been operating in Colombia for 80 years, and is planning to celebrate by destroying trade union organization, says union SINTRAINAL. According to the union, “It has been eight decades of looting, repression, warnings, banishments, collective sacking, death threats, constraints, arrests, raids on employees; of difficulties for its’ workers, moments of anguish for families, and the immense sadness of the assassination of eight of its’ trade union leaders.” 94% of Coca-Cola’s Colombian workforce are now employed on third-party or temporary contracts, and the company want to casualize those who are still on substantive contracts. SINTRAINAL offer “many thanks to those in all corners of the world who have shown solidarity with our cause, allowing us to continue to live and fight. Congratulations to the now few workers who are still organising, despite the violent attacks by Coca-Cola and the Colombian government.”
Read more
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  ‘UPPER CLASS’ NEO-NAZIS KILL UNCHALLENGED

Five young people have been attacked by a group of Neonazis in Ibague; Architecture student and punk Ricardo Ivan Ruge was killed, another student was stabbed and is recovering in hospital. The three others were also injured. One member of the LGBT movement said that the group of skinheads had confronted and threatened them a month previously, and had attacked a young woman because of the colour of her skin. However, the authorities of “Democratic Security” have so far taken no significant action to stop either their movement around the city or their violent activity. They are described by the mother of one of the wounded as being of “high society in Ibague”; for this reason people are reluctant to challenge them, including it would appear, the authorities. The mother of Ricardo Ivan Ruge has demanded justice, and that the murder of her son does not go unpunished. Young people marched in Ibague on 14th December, in a call for peace, tolerance and respect for diversity.
 
  MILITARY PRESSURE ON PEASANT COMMUNITY

The residents of Bilbao in Tolima are too frightened by the presence of the Army in their community, to take part in any communal development action. They fear being branded as insurgent supporters and arrested or killed. The tense situation generated by the military boot of Uribe’s “Democratic Security” has resulted in this community being marginalized from popular initiatives; some people have taken refuge in religion, others in indifference.
Read more
 
  VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN; MOST DANGEROUS PLACE IS THE HOME

Statistics for two of Colombia’s major cities, up to end November 2007, show horrifying levels of violence towards women, which are not believed to be related to the country’s internal conflict. 47 women have been murdered in Medellin, 14 of these in November alone. These cases are described as “hate crimes, perpetrated due to a patriarchal culture in which women are undervalued and dominated.” In Bogota, more than 6000 women reported physical attacks or sexual abuse during the same period, the majority committed by family members. At present, the authorities appear to show a tolerant attitude towards these crimes, which are likely to be replicated at a similar level throughout the country.
Read more
 
  LATEST NEWS, DECEMBER 07
  NATIONAL NEWS
  Chavez and Piedad with FARC leader Ivan Marquez URIBE TERMINATES PEACE PROCESS

On 21st November, President Uribe terminated the intervention of President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela, and Colombian Senator Piedad Cordoba, in negotiations for a humanitarian exchange of prisoners as a first step towards a peace agreement. The reason given was that Chavez had breached protocol by making a telephone call to an Army General. However, Uribe has been antagonistic towards the process from the start, and was actively looking for any pretext to stop the significant progress that had been made. His decision has destroyed the hopes of the families of hostages as well as other world leaders, and sparked numerous protests throughout Colombia. He has also caused serious damage to relations between the two neighbouring countries.
“This is a Government of Louts” Voz Editor Carlos Lozano analyses events.
Piedad Threatened
What Press Freedom? by Carlos Lozano
 
  President Uribe PRESIDENT’S PROVEN LINKS WITH PARAMILITARIES

Some commentators have suggested that Uribe has terminated the Chavez negotiations in order to divert attention from his other problems. A video taken during his 2002 election campaign which clearly links him with paramilitaries, has been posted on the Polo website recently. Uribe responded by trying to attack the Polo; “I meet publicly with paramilitaries, whilst Polo leaders do it in secret with the guerrilla”. In addition, one of his close allies, Jorge Noguera, been dismissed by a judicial ruling from his post as head of the DAS intelligence service, on a number of charges including passing information to paramilitaries for the assassination of trade union leaders. Uribe has always defended Noguera to the hilt, in the belief that the evidence against him was flimsy. This ruling reflects badly on Uribe, and undermines the legitimacy of the government both at home and abroad.
What more proof do you need? Read more
 
  TRADE UNION NEWS
  THE LABOUR REFORM DEBATE

A report from the National University reflects growing concern over the earnings and working conditions of Colombian workers, and has led the Attorney General to consider repealing Uribe’s 2002 Labour Reform law. According to the report, there are approx. 4 million workers in Colombia earning less than the legal minimum wage; 1.8 million of these earn less than half the minimum rate. Of the 4 million, 1.3 million are unsalaried, the other 2.4 are classed as self-employed, and mostly living on an unstable income. On top of this there are the so-called Associated Work Co-Operatives, who are contracted by companies to provide workers, without any contractual obligations between the company and worker. These co-operatives are accepted by some trade unions as a means of limiting job reductions, even though this undermines the fundamental trade union fight. There are many arguments used to justify this state of affairs, the most common being that it is necessary to have a completely flexible workforce, who are not tied by the limited State controls in place at present. The clear challenge to the trade unions is to formalize the relationship between all employers and workers, and protect collective contractual agreements in order to turn around what seems like a return to employment practices of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
 
  Oil Workers El Centro OIL WORKERS UNITE AND WIN

Residents and workers in the oil-producing community of El Centro in Barrancabermeja were threatened with eviction by oil companies OXY and Ecopetrol, who want access to large oil reserves beneath the land. The companies cut off water and gas to the community, to try to force them out, and even threatened to contaminate their water supply with anti-corrosive chemicals. After the companies refused to consider protecting the community, the oil workers, supported by all the residents started strike action. Inevitably, State security forces were brought in, protest leaders were arrested, even tanks were used, seriously injuring at least one person. But protesters held firm, and with additional intervention by human rights groups, the community managed to win agreements from Ecopetrol. Their victory against a State that always uses force to silence protest, shows that “when those below unite, those above will tremble”.
Read more
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  FORCED DISPLACEMENT IN COLOMBIA; A STATE CRIME

After hearing testimonies from hundreds of displaced people, an International Opinion Tribunal that took place in Bogota on 21st – 23rd November concluded that the Colombian State carries a high level of responsibility for one of the largest displaced populations in the world, behind only Sudan and Iraq. Most of the 4 million displaced in Colombia have been evicted from their land by violent means, and the Tribunal noted the undeniable links between the State and paramilitary forces. It will be sending an extensive document of conclusions to the International Penal Court.
Read more
 
  THREE TRADE UNIONISTS MURDERED IN ONE WEEK

In a cynical manoevre to protect the progress of the Free Trade Agreement with the US, Vice-President Santos blamed the crimes on “the extreme left” On 2nd November, Leonidas Silva Castro, Branch Chair of a teachers union, was assassinated at her home in Norte de Santander. On 3rd November, Jairo Geraldo, Branch Chair of union Sinaltraifrut was killed. Following this assassination, Vice-President Santos said “This shows that the enemies of trade unionism are also in the extreme left”. On November 7th, teacher Mercedes Consuelo Restrepo Campo, a trade union and Polo activist, was shot dead. The persecution of those who oppose or criticise Uribe’s regime continues.
 
  Jael Quiroga RAMPANT IMPUNITY

The Colombian Public Prosecutors’ Office is re-opening investigations into 294 cases relating to the genocide of the left-wing Union Patriotica Party in the 1980’s. The UP was decimated by the murder of nearly all its’ representatives and activists; more than 3,000 people. Campaign organisation Reiniciar has gathered evidence of around 5,200 cases of assassinations, disappearances, torture and arbitrary imprisonment, which it has presented to the Inter-American Commission for Human Rights. Reiniciar are hoping that after reviewing the evidence, the Commission will take the cases forward to hearing in the Inter-American Court. Jael Quiroga, Director of Reiniciar, believes that to open only 294 cases in the face of evidence of thousands more shows “rampant impunity”. “It is a disgrace” she told Voz, “It is nothing more than an acknowledgement of the impunity”
 
  DANGEROUS CONCENTRATION OF POWER

The State Intelligence Law project, which aims to regulate the intelligence services in Colombia, has caused a furore in Congress and other important sectors of opinion. The project, which could be approved by Congress given the Uribista majority, creates a National Intelligence System, made up of all the separate intelligence agencies that already exist within the various State forces. The System would be led by a Presidential Advisor for Intelligence, who would plan and co-ordinate it’s work. The Alternative Democratic Pole are deeply concerned that such an NIS will lead to invasion of privacy and abuse of it’s powers, more so if ultimate decision-making power rests with the President, a concern shared by ex-military personnel. The opposition is not against having a co-ordinator for Intelligence, but against having a concentration of the various existing agencies.
 
  LATEST NEWS, OCTOBER 07
  NATIONAL NEWS
  Samuel Moreno, elected Mayor of Bogota ELECTION SUCCESS FOR THE LEFT

Elections of regional governors and assembly members, local mayors and councillors for a four-year term, took place throughout Colombia on Sunday 28th October. Despite paramilitary threats, corruption, intimidation and vote-buying, the Polo Democratico Alternativo, the new Left coalition party founded last year, achieved significant success. Most notable was the election of Samuel Moreno as Mayor of Bogota, considered the second most powerful office in the country. The PDA believe they now represent a real alternative to the long-standing politics of corruption and violence in Colombia, and the leader, Carlos Gaviria, has called on the party to start building for the next Presidential elections in 2010 (Gaviria came second last year).
President Uribe was once a Liberal Party representative, but won the Presidency as an independent candidate. He is now supported by seven “Uribista” parties at all levels of the political system. The traditional Conservative and Liberal parties still maintain a strong presence, but the more powerful influences of the paramilitary, mafia, “narco-politicians” and big business are aligned with Uribe. This means that the PDA has a tough job ahead, despite evidence of widespread popular support.
Putting Out the Lights: Uribe’s Dirty Election Campaign
Thoughts on the Campaign
 
  HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

Despite repeated and widespread national and international calls for a Humanitarian Agreement to end the long-standing internal conflict in Colombia, President Uribe remains obstructive. President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela has committed to facilitating negotiations between the Colombian government and the FARC guerrilla, but is becoming increasingly frustrated by Uribe’s behaviour. The planned meeting between Chavez and FARC leader Manuel Marulanda, in Caracas on 8th October, failed to take place due to Uribe’s refusal to guarantee the guerrilla safe passage. He is also hindering an exchange between two guerrillas held in the US, and three US citizens currently held by the FARC.
However, a meeting on 12th October between Uribe, Chavez and President Correa of Ecuador agreed that a humanitarian exchange of prisoners should take place without delay. At the time of writing, a meeting between Chavez and members of the FARC leadership had been agreed.
 
  No More Walk of Death THREE DAY PROTEST AGAINST THE GOVERNMENT

“Sudden and unexpected” was how some media described three days of protest marches against the government, that took place all over Colombia on the 10th 11th and 12th October. Local issues were raised, but the common themes everywhere were protests against the Free Trade Agreement, the Economic Development Program, “Paramilitary Politics” and privatisation of electricity, oil and health sectors. All called for a humanitarian agreement with the FARC, and for President Uribe to resign.
100 health workers left Barranquilla on the north coast on 1st October, and marched to Bogota, arriving on the 10th , under the slogan “No More Walk of Death”, in protest at the dismantling and privatisation of the healthcare system.
Thousands of agricultural workers organized marches on the 11th and 12th, many of which were impeded or prevented by State forces, on the grounds that they were “ordered by the guerrilla”. Inevitably, heavy-handed tactics were used in the run-up to, and during the protests. Arrests and detentions were commonplace throughout the country, with the express aim of stopping or limiting the demonstrations.
Read More
 
  TRADE UNION NEWS
  HSBC branch during the strike SUCCESSFUL STRIKE BY THREATENED HSBC WORKERS

HSBC entered trading in Colombia this year , buying up Panamanian bank Banistmo. When the 650 staff, represented by banking union Uneb, asked to renew previous collective agreements, HSBC responded with their own proposal, which offered worse terms, and also aimed to undermine trade union rights. Uneb were very concerned, saying “This is extremely important, because in this country, trade union activity is brutally attacked by the employers and by the State”. Having failed to reach agreement, staff voted for strike action, and after 11 days, and the involvement of state arbitration, a new agreement was signed, which preserves pre-existing terms and conditions.
Workers have however reported instances of threats and intimidation during the strike, including pressure to work in “pirate” branches set up by the bank in order to continue its’ operation.
Read story
 
  Gilberto Luis Martínez Guerra, Vice-President of Anthoc ANTHOC EXPERIENCES EXTERMINATION AND LIQUIDATION

Healthworkers union ANTHOC has become victim of a campaign of genocide and liquidation, Vice-President Gilberto Luis Martinez Guerra has told Voz.
More than 688 cases of threats against Anthoc members have been reported between 1996 and 2007, coming from the public forces and paramilitaries, who have forced the displacement of 253 workers and their families. Of these, 22 have had to leave the country. 117 members have been assassinated, half of whom have been killed during Uribe’s Presidency. Impunity for these assassinations is currently 99%.
However, Anthoc is now facing a new form of attack; the persecution and assassination of their relatives. In this way government statistics can show the international community an improved performance on assaults and murders of trade unionists.
According to Martinez Guerra, 22 multiple attacks have been reported on medical staff. On six occasions, people wounded have been subsequently killed once inside ambulances, some of which have been set on fire for attending combat scenes.
 
  GOLD MINE TRAGEDY; UNIONS BLAME GOVERNMENT

24 miners, 15 of them women, lost their lives on the 14th October, when the mine from which they were trying to extract gold collapsed, in Suarez, Cauca.
The government’s response to public outcry was to call attention to the illegal nature of the operation at the mine. However, it failed to mention the poor social conditions suffered by more than 5000 inhabitants of the area, who without any other resources to sustain them, are forced to hand-mine for gold without State agreement.
At least 40% of small mining operations in Colombia are carried out illegally and by hand, and the process is unsafe. There are around 2400 such mines in existence. While the government does not protect the tens of thousands of families who hand-mine, it hands over the country’s richest gold deposits to multi-national companies, requiring them to return only 10% of the yield to the nation.
Read article
 
  COLOMBIAN FOOTBALLERS DENIED EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS

The Colombian Professional Footballers Association, Acolfutpro, has sought intervention from the UN International Labour Organisation in a dispute with the government, the Colombian Football Federation, Dimayor the main football division, and professional clubs, for their failure to keep to agreements guaranteeing players’ right of association, and collective negotiation.
The Colombian government has ignored previous recommendations from the ILO Committee for Trade Union Freedom, and failed to intervene to resolve the dispute between clubs and players. As a result of the complaint by Acolfutpro to the ILO, the Vice-Minister for Labour Relations is meeting with the sporting bodies concerned to tackle the issue. Acolfutpro says that it will continue to appeal to any national and international authority necessary, in order to gain respect for the rights of players in Colombia.
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  PUBLIC FORCE EXECUTES AT LEAST 169 PEOPLE IN A YEAR

So states a report from the Centre for Investigation and Popular Education (Cinep). These are the so-called “false positives”; men, women and even children who are murdered by the various state security bodies, including the Army and Police, then reported as “guerrilla killed in combat”. In this way the state can claim success for President Uribe’s policy of Democratic Security. Common targets are peasant workers, indigenous people, students and trade unionists. 169 such cases were recorded between 1st July 2006 and 30th June 2007.
A further report warns that extra-judicial executions have increased by 66% under Uribe’s government compared to the period 1997-2002, with 995 cases registered, as well as 235 cases of forced disappearances. The report lists numerous case details, including one of a 14 year-old boy killed, and reported as a “child guerrilla”.
“These cases not only question the legitimacy of the public forces, but also suggest that excessive pressure from the President to show results for his counter-insurgency plan, is leading to a perverse logic; in order to show positive results it is necessary to manufacture them” said Cinep.
 
  PARAMILITARIES RECRUIT CHILDREN

Masked paramilitaries have entered homes in the shanty-towns of Ciudad Bolivar and Soacha on the outskirts of Bogota, and forcibly taken children and adolescents from their families to swell their ranks. Although several children taken have been reported to the authorities, it is known that in most cases the parents dare not report the abductions for fear that their children or their families will be killed. In 2005, 625 children were recruited in a similar manner, another 125 were killed for resisting the paramilitary press gangs.
 
  STOP UK MILITARY AID TO COLOMBIA

It would be impossible to include in Otravoz all the human rights abuse cases reported by Voz. The ones below are just from the 31st October edition. What is significant is the number of assassinations and other abuses being carried out by State Security Forces, particularly the Army (see report above). Yet the UK government continues to support the Colombian military.

PLEASE SIGN the Justice for Colombia e-petition to Gordon Brown, asking him to suspend UK military aid until the Colombian government fulfils its’ Human Rights obligations.
http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/Colombia/

Inhabitants of Mapiripan (Meta) have reported to Voz that on 26th October, their community was bombed and shelled for an hour by three Air Force planes. Luckily, no-one was hurt this time; in 1997 Mapiripan was attacked by paramilitaries working with the Army. More than 50 men, women and children were tortured and killed. The community is calling on the United Nations, the Red Cross and human rights organisations to ensure their future safety.

Adinael Arias Cardenas aged 32 was killed on 14th October in San Calixto, Santander, and Wilmer Jacome aged 22 was killed on 16th October in Cartagenita, Santander. Both were abducted and assassinated by Army personnel, then reported afterwards as “killed in combat”.

In Acnur, Choco, 6 displaced people were killed and 8 more injured by paramilitaries on 16th October. Since 1st September, 23 people from this community are known to have been killed, in addition to many more cases of threats, intimidation and violence.
 
  LATEST NEWS, SEPTEMBER 07
  NATIONAL NEWS
  Raul Reyes, one of the FARC leaders, with Senator Piedad Cordoba, in their recent meeting to discuss humanitarian exchange. Courtesy of Jorge Enrique Botero. HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

On 31st August, Presidents Uribe and Chavez met for nearly seven hours in talks to try to make progress towards a peace agreement between the Colombian Government and the FARC guerrilla movement. It is clear that, despite saying that he welcomes Chavez’s intervention, and despite the Venezuelan Presidents’ best efforts, Uribe will not move from his antagonistic and intransigent position. Now, together with Colombian Senator Piedad Cordoba, Chavez is focusing on talks with FARC leaders, and a meeting has been agreed with Manuel Marulanda, Head of the FARC, for 9th October, the anniversary of the assassination of Ernesto Che Guevara. The FARC have expressed willingness to co-operate with Chavez and Cordoba in reaching agreement, despite government claims that the process will fail because the FARC do not want it.
Read editorial; The Uribista Sabotage by Carlos Lozano Guillen
Bodies of 11 Valle de Cauca Governors released to International Red Cross
 
  Carlos Gaviria, President of the PDA ELECTIONS

On 28th October, Colombia goes to the polls for local elections, to vote for regional and local leaders and representatives. The Alternative Democratic Pole (PDA) party is a coalition of the Left, which is campaigning for, and winning, wide popular support for it’s anti-war, democratic and inclusive policies. The PDA’s significant, and unexpected success in the national and presidential elections last year, showed that it is a real threat to the Uribista government. As a result, there is very real concern that military and paramilitary activity will endanger both the candidates, and people’s right to vote. The Colombian media have been doing their best to undermine and divide the party, and there are even moves by the bourgeoisie to create a so-called “new left” themselves, so great is the threat to the capitalist ruling class.
The Electoral Challenges of Unity by Gabriel Becerra
The Left Wanted by the System by Alvaro Vasquez
 
  TRADE UNION NEWS
  IMPUNITY RUNS FREE

Between 1994 and 2006, 1165 trade unionists were assassinated in Colombia. Of these, only 10 cases resulted in convictions against the perpetrators. Until the rate of impunity of 99% is addressed, the killing of trade unionists will inevitably continue in these appalling numbers.
Read more
 
  URIBE’S ANTI-TRADE UNION OFFENSIVE

The Colombian trade union movement has seen a serious decline in membership in recent years, partly due to people’s fear of the repercussions of joining a union, but due in large part to the government’s privatisation program.
Read editorial by Miguel Antonio Caro Pineda
 
  THE GRAVE-DIGGERS OF SOCIAL SECURITY

Privatisation is a growing threat to the NHS in the UK, but the government have yet to resort to the Colombian approach to achieve it. In the capital, Bogota, police have carried out night-time raids on the four main state-run hospitals, throwing out staff in readiness for private take-overs. Health workers and supporters will be marching in protest, starting in Barranquilla on the north coast on 1st October, and arriving in Bogota 10th October.
Read editorial by Alvaro Vasquez
 
  BANCOLOMBIA ATTACKS TRADE UNION RIGHTS

Following a company merger, Bancolombia is undermining trade union rights, and using any pretext to sack staff in order to save labour costs
Read article
 
  HUMAN RIGHTS
  HOLOCAUST OF THE PALACE OF JUSTICE; NEW EVIDENCE

In November 1985, M-19 guerrillas stormed the national Palace of Justice in Bogota. Their take-over was short-lived, as State Forces carried out a violent retaliation, in which more than 100 people died. Now, a new video tape has come to light, which calls into question exactly what happened nearly 22 years ago, and who benefited from the catastrophe.
Read story
 
  UNIVERSAL RIGHTS FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLE

On 31th September, the United Nations approved a Declaration of Rights for Indigenous populations worldwide. Colombia abstained from the vote. With it’s atrocious track record on rights for it’s own indigenous people, it remains to be seen how Colombia will respond to the Agreement.
Read more
 
  “YOUR HUMAN RIGHTS ARE WORTH NOTHING”

This is what farmer William Diaz was told by military personnel who illegally detained, interrogated and tortured him.
Read story
 
  MORE HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS

These are just four of a number of reports on human rights abuses in the September editions of VOZ.
Student activists threatened; Santander
Army breach Human Rights; Santander
Human Rights defenders receive paramilitary death threats; Meta
Fumigations and occupations; Arauca
 
  LATEST NEWS, AUGUST 07
  THE USUAL SABOTAGE

Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has offered to help broker an agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC guerrilla, specifically with the aim of achieving a humanitarian exchange of prisoners as a precursor to a peace agreement. However, Carlos Lozano, Editor of VOZ, reports that although President Uribe is outwardly welcoming Chavez’ intervention, behind the scenes his people are busy campaigning against any move whatsoever towards peace.
Read article
 
  URIBE SLAMS THE DOOR ON PROFESOR MONCAYO, THE “PEACE WALKER”

Gustavo Moncayo’s son was captured by FARC guerrilla almost 10 years ago, in an attack on his military base. Frustrated by President Uribe’s intransigence towards a humanitarian exchange of prisoners, Profesor Moncayo embarked on a 1000km journey on foot, from his home in the south of Colombia to Bogota, in order to meet the President. He won tremendous support from the Colombian people during his journey, all of them tired of the violence that is rife throughout the country, and all wanting to see a peace agreement reached. President Uribe prepared for a public debate with Profesor Moncayo, with all the media invited, expecting Moncayo to criticise the guerrilla who hold his son. He was taken by surprise to find Moncayo’s anger, and that of his thousands of supporters, directed at himself and his proposals. He maintained his position of opposing any meaningful measures towards peace, and Moncayo was deeply disappointed. However, the achievement of the “Peace Walker” in mobilizing public opinion should not be dismissed lightly.
Read full story
The President’s Proposals
 
  HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN NARINO

At least 1600 refugees have already passed over the Colombian border into Ecuador. The neighbouring country has sought international assistance for the avalanche Colombian expatriates fleeing from the aggression of the Army, the paramilitaries and the violent eradication of their coca crops.
Read full story
 
  FIVE YEARS OF “DEMOCRATIC SECURITY”

This VOZ editorial looks at the five years of Uribe Velez’s presidency, and his policy of “democratic security”, which in practice is neither democratic or secure for the majority of Colombians. Uribe steadfastly denies the existence of a political armed conflict in Colombia, whilst spending progressively greater sums of public money on arms and military personnel.
Read article
 
  INTERVIEW: FEDERICO VALERO

This short but fascinating interview, Federico Valero, imprisoned for over 4 years on trumped-up charges because of his left-wing political activity, describes how he survived prison to come out with even greater commitment to his political work.
Read interview
 
  WHICH SEDITION?

Alberto Acevedo analyses President Uribe’s attempt to obtain a legal mechanism that would protect his paramilitary friends, who have committed countless atrocities with complete impunity. This “would be a monstrosity that cannot be allowed by the democratic conscience of the country, which must mobilize itself now, without delay, to stop the official military project and to save the country from going further down under an authoritarian, fascist regime.”
Read article
 
  ARAUCA MASSACRE

On 15th August 2004, in Saravena (Arauca), regional trade union leaders Jorge Prieto, Leonel Goyeneche and Hector Martinez were assassinated. A military group were responsible, presenting the victims as “ELN guerrillas killed in combat”, a story repeated by military high command and Vice-President Francisco Santos. Now, a Judge has found the soldiers responsible for defenceless killing, and furthermore for misrepresenting the facts to simulate a confrontation. The 4 soldiers were sentenced to 40 years imprisonment. The questions that should be asked are, What will happen to the officials who ordered the operation? What sanctions will be taken against the military command who justified it? And what responsibility falls onto Vice-president Santos, who perpetuated the lie that the trade unionists were guerrillas?
 
  A FIESTA FOR THE FIGHT FOR LIFE

It was an unforgettable party; the Festival for VOZ, commemorating it’s first 50 years of “breaking the silence”. More than 6,000 people took part in the cultural and political celebration, responding to the invitation to the commemoration in the same way that they have supported the longest-standing alternative press in Colombia over many years. Amongst the many artistes who entertained the crowd, Carlos Lozano, Editor of Voz; Jaime Caicedo, Secretary of the Communist Party, and Samuel Morenas Rojas, Mayoral candidate for Bogota, all spoke in the afternoon, reaffirming their commitment to unity, to building the PDA and to developing social policy. The fiesta was the last of a series of events commemorating half a century of the opposition newspaper. In other cities, events took place in support of VOZ and it’s fight for press freedom, to bring the truth to the people for many more years to come.
 
  LATEST NEWS, JULY 07
  PEACE,DEMOCRACY AND HUMANITARIAN EXCHANGE

For some time, the Colombian opposition have been pressing a reluctant government for a peaceful exchange of political prisoners; those arbitrarily detained by State forces, and hostages held by FARC and ELN guerrillas. This is seen as an essential first step for a strategy to end the long-running internal conflict in Colombia, and bring peace to the country. The Uribe government have produced a run of excuses not to advance the process, which would undoubtedly compromise their dictatorial, capitalist style of leadership and control.
Read more here
 
  CARLOS LOZANO INTERVIEW

In an interview with VOZ, Editor Carlos Lozano talks about his recent visit to Europe, where he met with various individuals and organisations to discuss the current political problems in Colombia. He was also part of a Colombian delegation organised by Justice for Colombia, who met with British and European politicians to promote the humanitarian exchange of prisoners. With the exception of the ultra-right, everyone he met agreed to support humanitarian exchange, including the then British Foreign Minister Lord Triesman.
Read interview here.
 
  AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL REPORT

Colombia; killings, arbitrary detentions and death threats; the reality of trade unionism in Colombia. VOZ summarises this detailed report, which describes the grave dangers faced by Colombian trade unionists. Since 1991 there have been 2,245 homicides, 3,400 threats and 138 forced disappearances of trade unionists. Amnesty’s Regional Director for Latin America, Susan Lee, said “It is sending a clear message to all Colombian trade unionists: Don’t complain about your working conditions, or campaign to protect your rights, because you will be silenced at any price”.
Read more here.
 
  FORCED DISPLACEMENT: LAND, LIFE AND DIGNITY CAMPAIGN

There are at least 3,700,000 people in Colombia who have been forcibly displaced from their homes and land by violent means, most of whom are women and children. Generally this is because the government or private companies want access to the natural resources contained on the land. This new campaign aims to secure reparation for victims and the right to return to their communities, by putting political pressure on the government, and also by seeking international awareness and support. Read article here
Read article here
 
  NEW ATTACK ON TRADE UNION LEADER

Alberto Bautista Contreras, a leading trade unionist in the mining sector, was the victim of an attempted assassination on 14th May. The local police s