Is Colombia heading to become another Mexico? Candidates warn of armed group expansion
In the Electoral Broad Table of Noticias RCN, the debate not only revolved around the congressional contest of March 8, but also around a question that permeated the entire conversation: Is Colombia repeating Mexico's path in the face of mafia power?
TL;DR
- Candidates in a Noticias RCN debate drew parallels between Colombia and Mexico concerning the growing power of mafias.
- Concerns were raised about the expansion of illegal armed groups, territorial control, and recruitment of youth in Colombia.
- Illegal gold mining and extortion were identified as significant financing sources for these groups, surpassing drug trafficking.
- The 'total peace' policy was criticized as a failure, contributing to Colombia's security challenges and potential collapse.
- Impunity, with a high percentage of released offenders, was cited as a factor strengthening irregular groups.
- Alternative strategies were proposed, including focusing on youth in sustainable industries like nature tourism to divert them from illegal activities.
- The Defensoría del Pueblo has warned of a high number of municipalities at risk due to the presence of irregular groups.