The Colombian government has failed to come to an agreement amidst talks with union leaders. The government has labeled these talks to be “exploratory,” much to the disdain of union leaders such as Diogenes Orjuela, head of the Central Union of Workers (CUT). Colombian citizens have been protesting recently against both social and economic policies put into effect by President Ivan Duque. Thousands of protesters have been out to demand change. These mass numbers of people participating in these now peaceful protests have led to mayors of major cities such as Bogotá to enforce curfews. During the first few days of protests, looting and attacks against public transportation took place, which is what prompted the curfews. According to the article, at least 5 people have died in connection to these protests, which does not sit well with the protestors. As no agreements have been reached, arrangements to meet again have been made. Protestors and union leaders are pushing for the government to put a stop to the killing of human rights activists, and to dissolve the ESMAD riot police, whom they want held responsible for the alleged use of excessive force on protestors. Additionally, they want to put into effect a better peace deal with leftist rebels. The government insists that the leaders make their list of 13 demands more specific. I think that by asking the leaders to make their demands more specific and labeling their involvement as exploratory, the Colombian government has been able to sort of dance around creating a real solution to these problems. At first glance, it seems as though the government is working with it’s people by agreeing to these talks, yet a deeper look provides the insight that no real effort has been put forth to come to an agreement. In my opinion, I understand that these policies that time to change, and certain leaders may not be okay with changing them, but if I was in the position of the protestors, I would be incredibly frustrated. They have protested peacefully and have a list of demands that they would like to see implemented. While it is unrealistic to think that all of the demands will be met, the Colombian government should be able to meet them in the middle and make some small changes. With that said, I don’t foresee this happening.
