Podcasts about revolutionary armed forces

For review:1.  The U.S. government on Tuesday hit Cuban state companies with new sanctions.U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the sanctions target five Cuban entities, including three linked to Grupo de Administración Empresarial S.A., a business conglomerate operated by Cuba's Revolutionary Armed Forces. 2. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that Washington would not accept Iranian tolls or fees on the Strait of Hormuz, as disputes over the vital waterway, nuclear inspections, and missiles exposed early strains in negotiations to end the Middle East war. 3. Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed Wednesday that the IDF will not withdraw from its southern Lebanon security zone, “even if there is an American demand,” while adding there was no such demand at this time. 4. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that Israel needs to be “free” from military dependence on the United States and develop its own weapons-production capabilities, arguing that this is needed to support the ongoing fight with Iran and its terror proxies. 5.  A senior Islamic State leader was killed by an airstrike last week, Central Command announced on Wednesday,. Ali Husayn al-Ulaywi was killed in a precision airstrike on June 19.6.  U.S. President Donald Trump told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Group of Seven summit in France that he would consider letting Ukraine build its own Patriot interceptor missiles.7.  The Missile Defense Agency today awarded Lockheed Martin a $35 billion undefined contract action (UCA) to quadruple production of its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors over a seven-year period, the company and the Defense Department announced. 

This Day in Legal History: Camp David AccordsOn March 26, 1979, Egypt and Israel formally signed the Camp David Accords, marking a historic breakthrough in international law and diplomacy. The agreement followed years of conflict between the two nations, including multiple wars that had destabilized the region. Brokered by U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the negotiations took place at the presidential retreat in Maryland. Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin played central roles in reaching the accord. The resulting treaty established a framework for peace and normalized diplomatic relations between the two countries. It also included provisions for Israel's withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula, which had been occupied since the Six-Day War. In exchange, Egypt became the first Arab nation to officially recognize Israel. The agreement demonstrated the power of sustained negotiation and third-party mediation in resolving entrenched disputes. It also highlighted the role of international agreements as binding legal instruments between sovereign states. The treaty had lasting implications for Middle Eastern geopolitics and influenced future peace efforts in the region. While controversial at the time, it ultimately reduced the likelihood of further large-scale conflict between the two nations. The accords earned Sadat and Begin the Nobel Peace Prize, underscoring their global significance. The Camp David framework remains a key example of how diplomacy can achieve outcomes that military action cannot.A California jury in Los Angeles found Meta Platforms and Google liable for harming the mental health of a woman who said she became addicted to their platforms as a child. The jury awarded $3 million in compensatory damages and an additional $3 million in punitive damages, effectively doubling the total award. Responsibility was split with Instagram accounting for 70% of the harm and YouTube 30%. Jurors concluded that both companies were negligent in designing their platforms and failed to warn users about potential dangers. They also found that the companies' conduct involved malice, fraud, or oppression, justifying punitive damages.This case is the first bellwether trial among thousands of similar lawsuits, making it an important test for future litigation against social media companies. The verdict increases potential legal exposure for these companies, which could face billions in liability nationwide. During trial, the plaintiff's attorneys argued that platform features like algorithms, autoplay, and infinite scroll were intentionally designed to be addictive. The defense countered that social media addiction is not a recognized condition and pointed to other factors in the plaintiff's life that could explain her mental health struggles.Jurors were influenced by a combination of evidence, including internal company materials and testimony from executives and former employees. Some jurors expressed skepticism about testimony from Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg. The relatively modest punitive damages award reflected hesitation about granting a large sum to a single individual. Both companies have stated they disagree with the verdict and plan to appeal. The case could shape how courts evaluate claims about the harmful design of social media platforms.Jury Doubles Damages Against Meta, Google In LA Bellwether - Law360US jury verdicts against Meta, Google tee up fight over tech liability shield | ReutersThe U.S. Supreme Court unanimously overturned a lower court ruling that had held Cox Communications liable for its customers' music piracy. The justices ruled that simply knowing customers may engage in copyright infringement is not enough to establish liability. Instead, there must be proof that the company intended to promote or encourage the illegal activity. The decision sends the case back to the Fourth Circuit for reconsideration under this clarified standard.The dispute originated from a 2019 jury verdict that ordered Cox to pay $1 billion to music companies, including Sony Music Entertainment, for contributory and vicarious copyright infringement. While the appellate court had upheld part of that ruling, the Supreme Court found that the legal standard for contributory infringement had been applied too broadly. Justice Clarence Thomas, writing for the Court, emphasized that providing a general service—even with awareness of misuse—does not automatically create liability.The ruling marks the Court's first major examination of secondary copyright liability in years and draws on earlier cases like Sony Corp. of America v. Universal City Studios and MGM Studios Inc. v. Grokster, Ltd.. A concurring opinion by Justice Sonia Sotomayor agreed with the outcome but warned that the majority may have limited other ways to hold companies accountable, such as aiding-and-abetting theories.The decision is seen as a significant win for internet service providers, who argued that broader liability would force them to cut off users based on unproven accusations. At the same time, the music industry expressed concern that the ruling could weaken protections against widespread copyright infringement. The case highlights ongoing tension between protecting intellectual property and maintaining practical limits on intermediary liability.High Court Reverses Music Piracy Liability Ruling Against Cox - Law360Ousted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro is facing U.S. criminal charges, including narcoterrorism, in a case that could test a rarely used federal law with a limited track record at trial. Prosecutors allege that Maduro led a conspiracy to traffic cocaine in coordination with groups such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), which the United States has labeled a terrorist organization. Maduro has pleaded not guilty and denies the allegations, claiming they are politically motivated.The narcoterrorism statute, enacted in 2006, targets drug trafficking tied to terrorism but has produced few successful trial outcomes. Of the small number of convictions obtained, some have later been overturned due to unreliable witness testimony. This history highlights a major challenge for prosecutors: proving that a defendant knowingly connected drug activity to terrorist operations. Legal experts note that this “knowledge” requirement is the most difficult element to establish in court.Maduro also faces additional charges, including drug trafficking and money laundering, which could still result in severe penalties even if the narcoterrorism count proves difficult. The law carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years, reflecting its seriousness. Prosecutors may rely on testimony from former Venezuelan officials, though the credibility of such cooperating witnesses could be heavily scrutinized.The case underscores broader tensions in applying U.S. criminal law to international actors and complex geopolitical conduct. It also demonstrates how expansive definitions of terrorism can complicate prosecutions. Ultimately, the outcome may shape how aggressively the U.S. uses narcoterrorism charges in future cases.Maduro case to test US narcoterrorism law with limited trial success | Reuters This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Robert Dougherty is joined by Cesar Alvarez, lecturer at Charles Sturt University on terrorism and security studies, to unpack the security, geopolitical and cartel criminal dynamics surrounding recent US military operations in Venezuela. Alvarez worked for Canberra-based national security think tank Australian Strategic Policy Institute and provided technical advice to the Terrorism Prevention Branch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. He has also served as a consultant and adviser to the Counter-Narcotics Directorate and the Doctrine and Planning Office of the National Police of Colombia. He holds a master of policing, intelligence and counter-terrorism with a degree of master of international security studies from Macquarie University. He also holds a bachelor's degree of government and international relations from Externado University of Colombia. Alvarez is the founder and director of public diplomacy organisation Australia-Colombia Dialogue. During the podcast, the pair discuss a range of topics, including: An overview of Venezuela's evolution into a key hub for transnational organised crime and drug trafficking. The role of the Cartel de los Soles and the deep entanglement between criminal networks and the Venezuelan state. Historical shifts in Latin America's criminal landscape following the fall of the Medellín Cartel, led by Pablo Escobar, and the Cali Cartel, run by the Rodríguez Orejuela brothers. The impact of Colombian coca cultivation, peace processes with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, and unintended consequences of counter-narcotics policy. The strategic, psychological and geopolitical implications of the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Likely internal power struggles within criminal organisations following Maduro's removal. The future of drug trafficking routes across Colombia, Venezuela and global markets, including Europe and Australia. Whether US actions in Venezuela set a precedent for other authoritarian leaders in Latin America. The potential implications for countries such as Cuba, Nicaragua and Colombia amid shifting regional politics. How the most recent changes in US policy may reshape Latin American security dynamics in the coming years. Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

Keith Stansell is a former U.S. Marine and Northrop Grumman employee who was captured by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) on February 13, 2003, after his surveillance plane crashed in the Colombian jungle during an anti-narcotics mission. Held hostage for 1,967 days alongside contractors Marc Gonsalves and Thomas Howes, Stansell endured harsh conditions in the jungle until their dramatic rescue by the Colombian military on July 2, 2008, during Operation Jaque.  A recipient of the Secretary of Defense Medal for the Defense of Freedom in 2009, he co-authored the bestselling memoir Out of Captivity: Surviving 1967 Days in the Colombian Jungle (2009) with Gonsalves and Howes, detailing their ordeal and resilience.  Father to twin sons born during his captivity, he advocates for awareness of hostage situations and supports military and veteran communities, emphasizing survival, family, and the human spirit in overcoming adversity. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: https://americanfinancing.net/srsNMLS 182334, nmlsconsumeraccess.org. APR for rates in the 5s start at 6.327% for well qualified borrowers. Call 866-781-8900, for details about credit costs and terms.https://betterhelp.com/srsThis episode is sponsored. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/srs and get on your way to being your best self.https://bruntworkwear.com – USE CODE SRShttps://bunkr.life – USE CODE SRSGo to https://bunkr.life/SRS and use code “SRS” to get your 25% off your family planhttps://calderalab.com/srs – USE CODE SRS Use code SRS for 20% off your first order.https://shawnlikesgold.comhttps://helixsleep.com/srshttps://patriotmobile.com/srshttps://ROKA.com – USE CODE SRShttps://shopify.com/srshttps://simplisafe.com/srs Keith Stansell Links: Book (Out of Captivity) - https://www.amazon.com/OUT-CAPTIVITY-Surviving-Colombian-Jungle/dp/0061769525 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Marc Gonsalves is an American who was held hostage by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) from February 13th, 2003 to July 2nd, 2008. A former imagery analyst in the U.S. Air Force, Marc was working as a civilian military contractor on a drug surveillance mission in Colombia when his single-engine plane crashed in the jungle. Upon being swiftly captured by the FARC, Marc would go on to live as an active hostage alongside fellow contractors Tom Howes and Keith Stansell for the next five years.  In July 0f 2008, Marc, Tom, and Keith would be rescued in Operation Jaque by the Colombian Security Forces. For their ordeal, all three men were awarded the Secretary of Defense Medal for the Defense of Freedom on March 12th, 2009. Since then, Marc has co-written the book 'Out of Captivity: Surviving 1,967 Days in the Colombian Jungle' with Tom and Keith, detailing their experiences as hostages.  ---------- Support Marc Gonsalves-  Get Your Copy of Marc's Book 'Out of Captivity: Surviving 1,967 Days in the Colombian Jungle' at https://www.amazon.com/Out-Captivity-Surviving-Colombian-Jungle/dp/0061769533 The Reformed Mindset Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@ReformedMindset Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/marc.gonsalves Twitter / X - https://x.com/marc_gonsalves ---------- TEAM DOG FOOD, TREATS & SUPPLEMENTS Be Your Dog's Hero: Veteran-owned by a former Navy SEAL and Special Operations K9 Trainer, Team Dog provides a complete diet of science-backed premium dog food, treats, and supplements to optimize your dog's health, forged from rigorous standards and real-world expertise. https://www.teamdog.shop  TEAM DOG ONLINE TRAINING Mike Ritland – a former Navy SEAL & Special Operations K9 trainer – shares his simple and effective dog training program to build trust and control with your dog. Based on Mike's bestselling book “Team Dog, Train the Navy SEAL Way”, join tens of thousands of families that successfully trained their way to a better dog.  https://www.teamdog.pet  SHOP ALL THE MIKE RITLAND BRANDS  Get all your Mike Ritland branded gear - Mike Drop | Trikos | Team Dog https://shop.mikeritland.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nearly a decade has passed since the Colombian government signed a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, the Farc, the largest left-wing guerrilla group in Latin America. Thousands of Farc fighters came out of their jungle and mountain hideouts, handed in their weapons, and returned to civilian life. The state has helped them reintegrate into the workforce, find jobs, and start businesses, so how has that process gone? We talk to former members of the Farc who spent years in the guerrilla organisation and in jail, who are now doing jobs like beekeeping and selling beer. How have they found the transition? And we hear from a woman whose mother was kidnapped by the Farc, and who questions why the state is spending so much time and money on former members of a group that committed terrible atrocities. If you would like to get in touch with the show, please email: businessdaily@bbc.co.ukPresented and produced by Gideon Long(Picture: View of bottles of craft beer made by former Farc rebels. Credit: Getty Images)

In 2016, the Colombian government signed a historic peace agreement with guerilla group the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, also known as FARC. The agreement brought an end to 52 years of war, but today, eight years after the agreement was ratified, Colombia is still not at peace. In this episode, Dr Nafees Hamid and Dr Andrés Casas discuss the motivations of guerilla group members in Colombia, public attitudes towards the 2016 peace agreement, and how behavioural science can facilitate peacebuilding efforts. This research is being undertaken as part of a project called XCEPT, which is funded by UK International Development from the UK government; however, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the UK government's official policies. XCEPT aims to understand the drivers of violent and peaceful behaviour in conflict-affected populations – and to find solutions that support peace. Find out more about XCEPT at xcept-research.org.

Dive into the impact on women, girls, and children of Bukele's mass imprisonment. We are joined by Juanita Goebertus Estrada who is the Director of the American Division at Human Rights Watch. She tells us about:The corruption in El SalvadorThe history of El Salvador's politicians with the gangsHow human rights are currently being infringedHow the Supreme Court was overruledWhat Juanita's thoughts are on transnational justiceAnd much much more. Tune in now!Juanita Goebertus Estrada is the Director of the American Division at Human Rights Watch. Between 2018 and 2022, Juanita was a Congresswoman in Colombia, dedicating her term to the implementation of the Peace Agreement between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Previously, she was head of the transitional justice group at the Office of the High Commissioner for Peace during the Havana Peace Talks, advisor to the National Security Advisor of Colombia, advisor to the Undersecretary of Defence of Colombia, and deputy director of the Institute for Integrated Transitions. Juanita holds BAs in Law and Political Science from the Universidad de Los Andes (Colombia) and an LLM from Harvard Law School.The International Risk Podcast is a weekly podcast for senior executives, board members, and risk advisors. In these podcasts, we speak with experts in a variety of fields to explore international relations. Our host is Dominic Bowen, Head of Strategic Advisory at one of Europe's leading risk consulting firms. Dominic is a regular public and corporate event speaker, and visiting lecturer at several universities. Having spent the last 20 years successfully establishing large and complex operations in the world's highest-risk areas and conflict zones, Dominic now joins you to speak with exciting guests around the world to discuss international risk.The International Risk Podcast – Reducing risk by increasing knowledge.Follow us on LinkedIn for all our great updates.Tell us what you liked!

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 10:41)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox News

More than 100 people have been killed and over 50,000 displaced in violence that has erupted in north-east Colombia, near its border with Venezuela. The scale and nature of the violence -- described by President Gustavo Petro as “war crimes” -- has prompted the government to declare “a state of internal commotion” and a “state of economic emergency”. Media reports indicate that the violence was due to rivalry between the guerrilla group National Liberation Army (or ELN), and remnants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (oo FARC), and the fight apparently was over control of coca plantations and the drug trade. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for “immediate cessation of acts of violence against the civilian population”. But the strife in Colombia is one of the longest civil wars in Latin America. What do the different parties in the conflict really want? Do they have political goals or are they fighting for control over the drugs trade? What are the options before President Petro, with regard to bringing lasting peace to his country? We speak with Santiago Rodriguez, a Bogota-based journalist with La Silla Vacia, a Colombian news website.

Interview with retired DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Dante SorianelloYears of Service: 1987-2022In 1987, Dante was hired by the DEA. After graduating from the DEA Academy, Dante was assigned to the San Diego office where he investigated clandestine methamphetamine laboratories, money laundering including the Green Ice initiative, and was assigned to the gang task force.Dante was deployed to South America where he served under Operation Snowcap destroying cocaine laboratories and clandestine airstrips.During his career, Dante was assigned Tuscon, AZ, Bogata, Colombia, Midland and San Antonio, Texas as well as DEA Headquarters. Dante was also part of the DEA Jungle Group where he focused on an investigation into the FARC also known as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.

The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia fought a guerrilla war against Colombia's government - as well as against right wing militias and drug cartels - for over four decades before signing a peace treaty in 2016 and then dissolving in 2017, though splinter faction known as The Dissidents still prowls the jungles.  As the FARC were coming up, another violent group in Colombia hellbent on taking over territory was also growing: the country's infamous drug cartels. In this episode, we're joined by longtime cartel correspondent and frequent guest, author Toby Muse to detail the history of the FARC and what exactly was their role in Colombia's cocaine trade.  Toby is the author of Kilo: Life and Death Inside the Secret World of the Cocaine Cartels  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox News

Fighters from dissident armed groups in Colombia are using TikTok to glorify their lives as guerrillas and recruit youngsters. These armed groups did not like the terms of a peace treaty negotiated between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the government in 2016, and they kept fighting against the Colombian government. Videos glorifying life inside the guerrilla: money, cars, guns, women, community and purpose, have struck a chord with teens, particularly in rural areas like the Cauca region in west Colombia. So how popular are these TikToks and what does it mean for Colombia?

Fighters from dissident armed groups in Colombia are using TikTok to glorify their lives as guerrillas and recruit youngsters.These armed groups didn't like the terms of a peace treaty negotiated between the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and the government in 2016, and they kept fighting against the Colombian government. These groups make their money from illegal businesses.Their videos have struck a chord with teens, particularly in rural areas like the Cauca region in west Colombia. Although not all the videos actively offer jobs, there are hundreds showing off what they portray as a slice of life inside the guerrilla: money, cars, guns, women, community and purpose. They do not emphasise the dangers associated with the lifestyle. So how popular are these TikToks and what does it mean for Colombia that there's tonnes of them, easily found by young people with smartphones across the country?Presenter: Laura Garcia and Rachelle Krygier Producer: Jonathan Griffin Studio Manager: Annie Gardiner Editor: Flora Carmichael Music: Bloque Occidental - Carlos Carrillo

How do stories give new perspectives to conflict and peace? In this episode, we speak with Juanita Vélez, a journalist and political scientist. She was the editor of La Silla Sur, a regional subsidiary of Colombian news website La Silla Vacía, focused on covering the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement in southern Colombia. She researches and writes journalistic stories on illegal armed groups, deforestation, and organized crime. She is also the author of A War Later, (Spanish: Una Guerra Después) a journalistic book that tells the stories of five Colombians impacted by the Peace Agreement made between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (the FARC). The book focuses not just on the former FARC combatants but also tells the stories of victims, military personnel, and government officials that weren't covered in the broader news at the time. We discuss the framework of the peace agreement, the impacts of implementation, and the how Vélez built trust within communities to facilitate her journalism.Watch the Pearson Institute's talk featuring Juanita Vélez on YouTube here.You can find more information on A War Later here.This podcast is produced in partnership with the Pearson Institute for the Study and Resolution of Global Conflicts. For more information, please visit their website at ThePearsonInstitute.orgAccess the transcript here.Podcast Production Credits:Interviewing: Paula Cadena Moreno and Hannah BalikciEditing: Nishita KarunProduction: Hannah Balikci

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 10:41)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox News

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 11:12)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox NewsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

It's 2008 and Columbian presidential hopeful Ingrid Betancourt and three US nationals have been held hostage by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC) for over five years. They are considered “VIP hostages" by the militant organisation. With numerous rescue attempts of other hostages ending in disaster, the Columbia and US governments are reluctant to make a move. But then one young intelligence analyst has a radical idea. What if they devised a plan that relied not on guns and bullets, but on audacious deception instead? If they can pull it off, it will rank among the greatest hostage rescues in history. If they can't, no one will live to tell the tale. A Sony Music Entertainment production. Find more great podcasts from Sony Music Entertainment at sonymusic.com/podcasts and follow us @sonypodcasts To bring your brand to life in this podcast, email podcastadsales@sonymusic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paula Delgado-Kling takes us inside the drug trade in Colombia, where her brother was kidnapped for ransom in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast.It's difficult for most of us to comprehend the cruelty of those who control the drug trade in Colombia and the unspeakable suffering often endured by young people who become ensnared in their illegal activities.In this episode, Delgado-Kling takes us to her homeland, where she examines the life of a young Colombian girl who became a child soldier in the guerrilla group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, or the FARC.It's all in her new book, “Leonor, the Story of a Lost Childhood,” which she'll share with us in the episode ahead.Paula Delgado-Kling holds degrees in comparative literature/French civilizations, international affairs, and creative writing from Brown University, Columbia University, and The New School, respectively. Leonor, for which she received two grants from the Canadian Council for the Arts, is her first book.Born in Bogota, Colombia and raised in Toronto, Canada, Delgado-Kling now resides in New York City.For her book, Paula followed Leonor for 19 years, from just after she became an active FARC member forced into sexual slavery by a commander 34 years her senior, through her rehabilitation and struggle with booze and drugs, to her more recent days as the mother of two girls.“Leonor” will be published Jan. 23 and is available for pre-order now from Amazon and on her website, www.PaulaDelgadoKling.com.You can meet Paula and attend her readings both in New York City and Coral Gables, Florida. Her first appearance is Tuesday, Jan 23 - 6-7:30 pm at Shakespeare & Co - 2020 Broadway, Upper West Side, NYC. Then on Sunday, Jan. 28 Paula will be at Books & Books 265 Aragon Av, Coral Gables, Florida, starting at 4 p.m.Here are some key questions we discussed with Paula: You're from Colombia, what was your childhood like there?Why did you leave Colombia?How did personal experiences in Colombia inform your book about Leonor?How and when did you meet “Leonor?” She is a real person, right?What can be done to prevent children from joining guerilla groups in Colombia?How and why has Colombia failed children?Why should we in America care?What can be done to curtail the drug trade in Colombia and its influx into the U.S.?I've had guests on this podcast who have called for legalization of all drugs, from pot, to cocaine, to heroin, essentially saying it's virtually impossible to control and is resulting in unfair prison sentences and overcrowding of our prisons. How do you feel about that?What do you hope to achieve with your book?Tell people where they can find your book and how they can reach out to you as the author.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-lean-to-the-left-podcast--4719048/support.

Paula Delgado-Kling takes us inside the drug trade in Colombia, where her brother was kidnapped for ransom in this episode of the Lean to the Left podcast.It's difficult for most of us to comprehend the cruelty of those who control the drug trade in Colombia and the unspeakable suffering often endured by young people who become ensnared in their illegal activities.In this episode, Delgado-Kling takes us to her homeland, where she examines the life of a young Colombian girl who became a child soldier in the guerrilla group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, or the FARC.It's all in her new book, “Leonor, the Story of a Lost Childhood,” which she'll share with us in the episode ahead.Paula Delgado-Kling holds degrees in comparative literature/French civilizations, international affairs, and creative writing from Brown University, Columbia University, and The New School, respectively. Leonor, for which she received two grants from the Canadian Council for the Arts, is her first book.Born in Bogota, Colombia and raised in Toronto, Canada, Delgado-Kling now resides in New York City.For her book, Paula followed Leonor for 19 years, from just after she became an active FARC member forced into sexual slavery by a commander 34 years her senior, through her rehabilitation and struggle with booze and drugs, to her more recent days as the mother of two girls.“Leonor” will be published Jan. 23 and is available for pre-order now from Amazon and on her website, www.PaulaDelgadoKling.com.You can meet Paula and attend her readings both in New York City and Coral Gables, Florida. Her first appearance is Tuesday, Jan 23 - 6-7:30 pm at Shakespeare & Co - 2020 Broadway, Upper West Side, NYC. Then on Sunday, Jan. 28 Paula will be at Books & Books 265 Aragon Av, Coral Gables, Florida, starting at 4 p.m.Here are some key questions we discussed with Paula: You're from Colombia, what was your childhood like there?Why did you leave Colombia?How did personal experiences in Colombia inform your book about Leonor?How and when did you meet “Leonor?” She is a real person, right?What can be done to prevent children from joining guerilla groups in Colombia?How and why has Colombia failed children?Why should we in America care?What can be done to curtail the drug trade in Colombia and its influx into the U.S.?I've had guests on this podcast who have called for legalization of all drugs, from pot, to cocaine, to heroin, essentially saying it's virtually impossible to control and is resulting in unfair prison sentences and overcrowding of our prisons. How do you feel about that?What do you hope to achieve with your book?Tell people where they can find your book and how they can reach out to you as the author.

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 10:41)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox NewsThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5003294/advertisement

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 10:41)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox NewsThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5080327/advertisement

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!(commercial at 10:41)to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox NewsThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5080327/advertisement

"Plan Colombia" was a United States foreign aid and military assistance program that aimed to address various issues in Colombia, primarily focusing on countering drug trafficking, promoting economic development, and improving security. The plan was initiated in the late 1990s and continued into the early 2000s. Here is a summary of its key elements:Background: Plan Colombia emerged in response to Colombia's longstanding issues with drug production and trafficking, armed conflict involving guerrilla groups like the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), and human rights abuses. The United States became concerned about the impact of drug trade on its own citizens and the stability of Colombia.Counter-Drug Efforts: A significant portion of Plan Colombia's funding was allocated to combat the production and distribution of illegal drugs, particularly cocaine and heroin. This involved eradicating coca and poppy crops, interdicting drug shipments, and supporting alternative livelihood programs for farmers involved in drug production.Security Assistance: The plan also provided military and law enforcement aid to the Colombian government to help them combat insurgent groups like the FARC and the National Liberation Army (ELN). This assistance included training, equipment, and logistical support to strengthen the Colombian armed forces.Human Rights Concerns: Plan Colombia faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses by Colombian security forces, including extrajudicial killings and displacement of civilians. Some critics argued that U.S. military assistance indirectly supported these abuses.Economic and Social Development: A portion of the plan's funding was directed towards promoting economic and social development in Colombia. This included initiatives to strengthen democratic institutions, reduce poverty, and improve access to education and healthcare.Successes and Controversies: Plan Colombia achieved some successes in reducing coca cultivation and drug-related violence. However, it was also criticized for not fully addressing the root causes of conflict and for being overly focused on military solutions.Legacy: Plan Colombia had a lasting impact on Colombia's security and drug policy landscape. It evolved over time and influenced subsequent U.S. policies in the region. It also had implications for regional geopolitics and relations between the United States and Latin American countries.After all that money and all that blood, more cocaine is now being produced than ever before. In this episode, we dive in!to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comsource:Colombian coca crops, used to make cocaine, at an all-time high last year, UN says | Fox NewsThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5003294/advertisement

As India welcomes the world's biggest economies for the G20 meeting this September, we look at the role that food might play in top level discussions. Food diplomacy is increasingly seen as a form of ‘soft power' that can help build bridges and find common ground. In this programme Devina Gupta speaks to chef Arun Sundaraj, who is leading the catering teams at the Taj Palace Hotel in Delhi which is hosting many of the G20 delegates. She visits the Colombian embassy in London to hear from the country's ambassador about the role food played during vital peace negotiations between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as FARC. Devina also travels to Glasgow in Scotland to share a plate of haggis with Scotland's national chef, Gary Maclean and Lauren Bernstein, founder and CEO of The Culinary Diplomacy Project in the United States, explains why governments are looking to hire culinary experts to aid in diplomacy. Presented by Devina Gupta. Produced by Rumella Dasgupta. (Image: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden raise two wine glasses in a toast. Credit: Getty Images/ The Washington Post/ BBC).

In 2016, Flaviu Georgescu was found guilty and sentenced of attempting to traffic weapons to the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, an insurgent group on the U.S. terror list. But when he was arrested by Drug Enforcement Administration agents, he told the officials he was working for the CIA. This week on Intercepted, Trevor Aaronson, contributing writer with The Intercept, joins host Murtaza Hussain to discuss Georgescu's case. In the second season of Aaronson's podcast, "Alphabet Boys," Aaronson tells the story of the DEA operation against Georgescu and how he was targeted by a paid DEA informant. Georgescu, however, had reported the attempted arms trafficking to the CIA and believed he was collecting intelligence for the agency. Aaronson and Hussain discuss their reporting on the case and how the U.S. government may be manufacturing the very crimes they claim to stop. The second season of "Alphabet Boys" is out now.If you'd like to support our work, go to theintercept.com/join — your donation, no matter what the amount, makes a real difference.And if you haven't already, please subscribe to the show so you can hear it every week. And please go and leave us a rating or a review — it helps people find the show. If you want to give us feedback, email us at Podcasts@theintercept.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Estefanía Rebellón is the co-founder and Executive Director of Yes We Can World Foundation, a female-led nonprofit organization that believes every child has the right to education and safe spaces regardless of their location, current legal status or economic background. Yes We Can World Foundation created and operates the Yes We Can Mobile Schools program. The program is recognized as the first full-time bilingual education program for migrant children at the U.S.-Mexico border. This innovative program addresses the academic and emotional needs of refugees, migrants and children in transit. Since July 2019 the Yes We Can Mobile Schools program has directly impacted the lives of over 2,000 children. Rebellón was a refugee from Cali, Colombia whose life was changed forever at the age of ten when she and her family were forced to flee their home due to death threats by the Colombian rebel group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Rebellón and her family moved to Miami, FL where they were granted asylum, later becoming permanent residents, then U.S. citizens after ten years. Rebellón moved to Los Angeles, CA to pursue her already budding career as an actress. Her work includes a role on the television show “Jane The Virgin,” hosting red carpet coverage for multiple Spanish media outlets and multiple features in national commercials and films. She starred in and co-directed the film “On The Other Side” which focuses on the story of Lupe and her migration journey to the United States. As an up- and-coming actress and humanitarian Rebellón is a champion and advocate for authentic Latin representation in the media and entertainment industry. In 2023 Rebellón was recognize as “Woman of the Year” by the Women's March LA Foundation. During the COVID-19 pandemic Rebellón was recognized as a “Hero of the Pandemic” by the Los Angeles Times for leading efforts at Yes We Can World Foundation to provide thousands of personal protective equipment kits for migrant children and their families. Rebellón has also been recognized as an “Unstoppable Woman” by Telemundo/NBC, a “Local Hero” by Zoomin and has been nominated for the "Alfonso Garcia Robles Humanitarian Award” by Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) for the defense, promotion, protection and guarantee of human rights for immigrant people who are in a condition of vulnerability. Rebellón's work has been featured in NPRs Morning Edition Show, Los Angeles Times, the New York Post, TIME for Kids and Global Citizen as well as in numerous ethnic media outlets.Instagram:@estefaniarebellon@yeswecanwf @thisisabouthumanity @immdef_lawcenterLINKS:https://www.yeswecan.world/https://filmfreeway.com/projects/1696197. www.thisisabouthumanity.com www.immdef.org www.citizensofsound.comwww.howcanihelppod.com www.mysaintmyhero.com DISCOUNT CODE: HOWIHELP

Journalist and author Antony Loewenstein joins the "Unauthorized Disclosure" podcast to discuss his new book, The Palestine Laboratory: How Israel Exports Exports the Technology of Occupation Around the World. The book from Verso Books will be published on May 23, and it comprehensively documents how Israel's military industrial complex uses the occupied Palestinian territories as a testing ground for the development of weapons and surveillance technology. In our interview, Antony describes the impact Israeli military support and weapons have had on populations in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. He specifically highlights the alliance Colombia formed with the Israeli military in a brutal war against the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia or the FARC. Social media companies, as Antony details, do not like Palestinians. He tells us about some of the ways in which Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc, censor Palestinians.

This book carries out a multidisciplinary analysis of different aspects of the peace process between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People's Army (FARC-EP), as well as the challenges of early implementation of the agreement reached in 2016. The authors of Excombatientes y acuerdo de paz en Colombia address practical issues regarding reintegration, implementation of peace agreements, and transition situations related to ex-combatants. They analyze the political reintegration process, the role of international cooperation and the private sector, the responses of groups such as youth, and also the institutional adjustments that this early stage has implied. Thanks to the thematic diversity, approaches, and methodologies, Dr. Erin McFee and Dr. Angelika Rettberg achieve a complementary and pertinent look at this incredible narrative in light of the challenges that the peace process implies for the formulation of public policies in Colombia. This work is aimed at academics and professionals in peacebuilding, reintegration, and transitional interventions and policies, but anyone interested in peace processes or Colombia will find this work both enlightening and inspiring. Connor Christensen is a graduate student at the University of Chicago, pursuing both an MPP at the Harris School of Public Policy and an MA at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Prior to his current studies he served five years in the US Navy and studied History at Saint Louis University's Madrid, Spain campus. His work focuses on the reintegration process of veterans of the military and non-state armed groups in contexts spanning the US, Colombia, Afghanistan, Somalia, and beyond. He is a staff writer for the Chicago Policy Review and a contributing researcher at Trust after Betrayal. He welcomes collaboration, so feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or at his email, ctchristensen@uchicago.edu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

This book carries out a multidisciplinary analysis of different aspects of the peace process between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People's Army (FARC-EP), as well as the challenges of early implementation of the agreement reached in 2016. The authors of Excombatientes y acuerdo de paz en Colombia address practical issues regarding reintegration, implementation of peace agreements, and transition situations related to ex-combatants. They analyze the political reintegration process, the role of international cooperation and the private sector, the responses of groups such as youth, and also the institutional adjustments that this early stage has implied. Thanks to the thematic diversity, approaches, and methodologies, Dr. Erin McFee and Dr. Angelika Rettberg achieve a complementary and pertinent look at this incredible narrative in light of the challenges that the peace process implies for the formulation of public policies in Colombia. This work is aimed at academics and professionals in peacebuilding, reintegration, and transitional interventions and policies, but anyone interested in peace processes or Colombia will find this work both enlightening and inspiring. Connor Christensen is a graduate student at the University of Chicago, pursuing both an MPP at the Harris School of Public Policy and an MA at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Prior to his current studies he served five years in the US Navy and studied History at Saint Louis University's Madrid, Spain campus. His work focuses on the reintegration process of veterans of the military and non-state armed groups in contexts spanning the US, Colombia, Afghanistan, Somalia, and beyond. He is a staff writer for the Chicago Policy Review and a contributing researcher at Trust after Betrayal. He welcomes collaboration, so feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or at his email, ctchristensen@uchicago.edu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

This book carries out a multidisciplinary analysis of different aspects of the peace process between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People's Army (FARC-EP), as well as the challenges of early implementation of the agreement reached in 2016. The authors of Excombatientes y acuerdo de paz en Colombia address practical issues regarding reintegration, implementation of peace agreements, and transition situations related to ex-combatants. They analyze the political reintegration process, the role of international cooperation and the private sector, the responses of groups such as youth, and also the institutional adjustments that this early stage has implied. Thanks to the thematic diversity, approaches, and methodologies, Dr. Erin McFee and Dr. Angelika Rettberg achieve a complementary and pertinent look at this incredible narrative in light of the challenges that the peace process implies for the formulation of public policies in Colombia. This work is aimed at academics and professionals in peacebuilding, reintegration, and transitional interventions and policies, but anyone interested in peace processes or Colombia will find this work both enlightening and inspiring. Connor Christensen is a graduate student at the University of Chicago, pursuing both an MPP at the Harris School of Public Policy and an MA at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Prior to his current studies he served five years in the US Navy and studied History at Saint Louis University's Madrid, Spain campus. His work focuses on the reintegration process of veterans of the military and non-state armed groups in contexts spanning the US, Colombia, Afghanistan, Somalia, and beyond. He is a staff writer for the Chicago Policy Review and a contributing researcher at Trust after Betrayal. He welcomes collaboration, so feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or at his email, ctchristensen@uchicago.edu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/latin-american-studies

This book carries out a multidisciplinary analysis of different aspects of the peace process between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People's Army (FARC-EP), as well as the challenges of early implementation of the agreement reached in 2016. The authors of Excombatientes y acuerdo de paz en Colombia address practical issues regarding reintegration, implementation of peace agreements, and transition situations related to ex-combatants. They analyze the political reintegration process, the role of international cooperation and the private sector, the responses of groups such as youth, and also the institutional adjustments that this early stage has implied. Thanks to the thematic diversity, approaches, and methodologies, Dr. Erin McFee and Dr. Angelika Rettberg achieve a complementary and pertinent look at this incredible narrative in light of the challenges that the peace process implies for the formulation of public policies in Colombia. This work is aimed at academics and professionals in peacebuilding, reintegration, and transitional interventions and policies, but anyone interested in peace processes or Colombia will find this work both enlightening and inspiring. Connor Christensen is a graduate student at the University of Chicago, pursuing both an MPP at the Harris School of Public Policy and an MA at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies. Prior to his current studies he served five years in the US Navy and studied History at Saint Louis University's Madrid, Spain campus. His work focuses on the reintegration process of veterans of the military and non-state armed groups in contexts spanning the US, Colombia, Afghanistan, Somalia, and beyond. He is a staff writer for the Chicago Policy Review and a contributing researcher at Trust after Betrayal. He welcomes collaboration, so feel free to reach out on LinkedIn or at his email, ctchristensen@uchicago.edu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In late November 2022, fighting killed at least 18 in a rural area of the Putumayu province in South west Colombia, near to the borders with Ecuador and Peru. It involved two dissident groups of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as the FARC for short. It has reignited tensions in an internal armed conflict which has spanned six decades, despite the government and FARC signing a peace agreement back in 2016. Their origins go back to Cold War times, when there was high instability in the country. Even before that, there had been a bloody civil war between 1948 and 1953, which was known as La Violencia. It started when popular Liberal presidential candidate Jorge Eliecer Gaitan was assassinated in 1948. How did the FARC organisation start out? Why did they turn to violence? How did the peace process start?  In under 3 minutes, we answer your questions! To listen to the latest episodes, click here: Why is 'permacrisis' the new dictionary word of the year? Is it dangerous if I get heart palpitations? Why do we get great ideas in the shower? A Bababam Originals podcast, written and produced by Joseph Chance. In partnership with upday UK. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shamster, Paula Davidson, and Supreme Commander and Dear Leader of the People's Revolutionary Armed Forces of the Podregation Chase sit down to sign off for a while. JOIN THE DISCORD https://discord.gg/qwVrhzXH Shama: https://linktr.ee/shama4realz PD: http://bit.ly/pdbach Chase: https://linktr.ee/chasebridges --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/churchstories/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/churchstories/support

Five years ago, the government of Colombia signed a historic peace accord with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, known as the FARC, putting an end to a fifty-year civil war. The agreement allowed FARC members to turn in their weapons and begin to live as civilians. The Colombian Truth Commission was established to shed light on decades of atrocities and human rights violations that were committed during the war. This summer the Truth Commission released its full report. Over 1,000 people worked on it, interviewing 24,000 Colombians. And in August, Gustavo Petro – a former guerilla combatant, and a vocal proponent of the peace agreement –  took office as President. Our guest this episode, Daniel Salgar, served as editor for the first volume of the Truth Commission Report, which focuses on Colombia's history. Salgar is a journalist who's worked in national and international media in Colombia for the past ten years. He was a reporter and editor at the newspaper El Espectador, where he oversaw a project on peacebuilding called Colombia 2020. He was editor and director of the Spanish news service for Anadalou, a Turkish international news agency. He teaches Journalism, Conflicts, and Migration at Externado University in Bogota.Daniel counts himself among a generation of journalists who spent most of their careers covering peace efforts. With the Truth Commission report and the historic election, Daniel is optimistic about peace in Colombia, despite ongoing violence in the country. Follow Daniel Salgar on Twitter: @DanielSalgar1View the Colombia Truth Commission Report (in Spanish) Read Daniel Salgar's interview with former FARC leader Timochenco (in English)Read Daniel's analysis piece on drug policy in Colombia (in Spanish) Explore the peacebuilding journalism project Colombia 2020 (in Spanish)Watch the documentary “A Call for Peace” for an intimate look inside the process leading up to the 2016 Colombian peace accord between the government and the FARC: vimeo.com/305983614. Enter password peace2019.Listen to our podcast interview with the film's director, Juan Carlos Borrero, on the episode “A Filmmaker's Perspective on the Colombian Peace Process.” Special thanks to Juan Carlos for connecting us with Daniel! Making Peace Visible is a project of War Stories Peace Stories. Our mission is to bring journalists and peacebuilders together to re-imagine the way the news media covers peace and conflict, and to facilitate expanded coverage of global peace and reconciliation efforts. Join the conversation on Twitter: @warstoriespeace. Visit our website: warstoriespeacestories.orgMaking Peace Visible is hosted by Jamil Simon, and produced by Andrea Muraskin.Music in this episode by Blue Dot Sessions, Phil Larson, Meavy Boy, Podington Bear, and Pianobook

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/latin-american-studies

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/military-history

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/national-security

In Proscribing Peace: How Listing Armed Groups as Terrorists Hurts Negotiations (Manchester UP, 2021), Dr. Sophie Haspeslagh offers a systematic examination of the impact of proscription on peace negotiations. With rare access to actors during the Colombian negotiations with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia People's Army (FARC), Dr. Haspeslagh shows how proscription makes negotiations harder and more prolonged. By introducing the concept of 'linguistic ceasefire', Dr. Haspeslagh adds to our understanding of the timing and sequencing of peace processes in the context of proscription. Linguistic ceasefire has three main components: first, recognise the conflict; second, discard the 'terrorist' label, and third, uncouple the act and the actor. These measures remove the symbolic impact of proscription, even where de-listing is not possible ahead of negotiations. With relevance for more than half of the conflicts around the world in which an armed group is listed as a terrorist organisation, 'linguistic ceasefire' helps to explain why certain conflicts remain stuck in the 'terrorist' framing, while others emerge from it. International proscription regimes criminalise both the actor and the act of terrorism. The book calls for an end to the amalgamation between acts and actors. By focussing on the acts instead, Dr. Haspeslagh argues, international policy would be better able to consider the violent actions both of armed groups and those of the state. By separating the act and the actor, change - and thus peace - become possible. This interview was conducted by Dr. Miranda Melcher whose doctoral work focused on post-conflict military integration, understanding treaty negotiation and implementation in civil war contexts, with qualitative analysis of the Angolan and Mozambican civil wars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the last fifteen years Colombia has moved from ostensibly failed state to emerging market and tourist destination, providing Nobel-endorsed evidence that peace and reconciliation are possible after decades of brutalization. But while Colombia may no longer be the country that former president Ernesto Samper described in 2002, where governing was like trying to pilot an airplane in a storm while the passengers were rioting, neither is it the wonderland depicted in official propaganda. Many Colombians live badly; many more, well into the nominal middle class, live precariously; and still more structure their lives around minimizing their chances of falling victim to crime—something the poorest are unable to do. Unhappiness about the present and pessimism about the future are rampant across the social scale, focused precisely on those themes the Juan Manuel Santos government (2010–2018) touted as successes: the peace process, “social inclusion,” and infrastructure and public services. Much can be blamed on the administration of President Ivan Duque and the continual spectre of uribismo in addition to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Colombia may be more governable than it used to be, but not because the passengers are happier with the pilot—with the qualified (and to many Colombians highly suspicious) exception of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Tune in for a profound historical and amusing anecdotal look at Colombia through the eyes and experience of an expert Latin Americanist. Dr. Richard Stoller is Coordinator of Academic Advising and International Programs, Schreyer Honors College, Pennsylvania State University. Colombia news brief from journalist Emily Hart.

Ep. No. 63 — Kidnapped and held hostage by drug kingpin Pablo Escobar revealed the best and worst of humanity / Francisco Santos Calderón, former Vice President of Colombia and former Colombian Ambassador to the United States. For months, Pablo Escobar, notorious head of the Medellín drug cartel and journalist Francisco Santos Calderon — one of his fiercest critics in the press, had been playing a dangerous cat and mouse game. Escobar was intent on kidnapping Santos — then the Editor-in-Chief of El Tiempo, Colombia's largest and most influential publication — and other journalists, as a bargaining chip to prevent extradition to the United States to stand trial for his murderous greed. Santos, tipped off to Escobar's intentions, had been changing his travel routes and work routines constantly to evade the cartel kingpin's henchmen. But on September 19, 1990, Santos was riding home from work in his bulletproof vehicle when the unthinkable happened. His car was surrounded by gunmen who killed his driver and kidnapped Santos who was one of 10 journalists and elites held hostage by Escobar that year. He was chained to a bed and held for eight months before being released. Santos was just 30 years old when Escobar snatched him off the streets. He was lucky to be alive. Between 1980 and 2000, nearly 180 journalists were killed for speaking up against the drug cartels. Santos would launch a highly successful campaign to reduce the epidemic of kidnappings in Colombia. He left the country for two years to avoid getting assassinated by the Marxist-Leninist guerilla group, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), after getting tipped off by the CIA about FARC's intentions. He worked at El País the most prominent newspaper in Spain. Santos eventually was elected to serve two terms as Colombia's Vice President under President Álvaro Uribe. He subsequently also served as the Colombian Ambassador to the United States under President Donald J. Trump from 2018 - 2020. Santos is now wearing his journalist hat again. He's highlighting the precarious political situation in Venezuela, and speaking out about Russia, China, and Iran, which he views as the unholy trifecta threatening the stability of geopolitics today. In 1996, he and his nine kidnapped compatriots became the characters in “News of a Kidnapping,” the English-language non-fiction book by famed Colombian novelist and Nobel Prize for Literature winner, Gabriel García Márquez. The book was originally published in Spanish the year before as “Noticia de un Secuestro.'' Santos declined to co-author “News of a Kidnapping” with Márquez, which he now says was “a very stupid decision on his part” but he later relented and spoke with Márquez over several days for the book. Apart from Márquez and the journalists Santos spoke with after his release, in the nearly-32 years since his kidnapping, he has not shared his story at all in detail. Don't miss this riveting episode of “When It Mattered.” Thanks for Listening. If you liked this episode, please check out these other episodes: Ep. 61 - Heroism, activism, reconciliation with nature / Jerry White, Nobel laureate, landmine survivor  Ep. 14 - Terrifying robbery and kidnapping reveals what truly matters in life / Stanley Alpert, Attorney Ep. 20 - Brought back to life, undertook new mission / Frank Shankwitz, Make-A-Wish Foundation

Friend of the podcast Zeyad el Nabolsy (@ZNabolsy) returns to guest host this episode with Ayesha Umaña Dajud (@AyeshaUmanaD) on the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia—People's Army (FARC) and the prospects for peace in Colombia. A preview of the latest bonus episode. Get access to it and hours and hours of bonus content by signing up at the $5 level.   *You're gonna be noticing more paywalled content going forward. As much as I want more people to listen for free, recent changes in my life require me to start pushing the Patreon more. Unfortunately, this means  the occasional passive aggressive addenda like this one reminding you, dear listener, that I have been doing this show alone for almost 4 years and I get no sponsorships or outside help.  I rely on normal people like you to keep going so if you can donate, please do! It will make a big difference for me and let me keep making this content.*

What were the "false positives or falsos positivos? Adriaan Alsema of Colombia Reports joins us on this "explainer" episode. This is the name given to the killings of young men - mainly from humble families - carried out by the Colombian army to inflate numbers of "neutralized" guerrilla combatants during the long-running conflict. The Colombian army's aim was to pass them off as left-wing rebels from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) to boost its kill rate and give the impression it was winning the armed conflict against the group. This past week, several members of the Armed Forces guilty of this heinous crime stood before family members of those killed in a hearing hosted by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP, which was created as a result of the 2016 peace accords) in the town of Ocaña, Norte de Santander. The JEP is designed to pursue transitional and restorative justice and the military officials confirmed their participation in the practice known as false positives from luring out of work young men from Bogotá, Soacha, Bucaramanga and other regions of Colombia, to areas of conflict with the promise of work. This hearing, which was televised, has revealed just a tiny percentage of the crimes committed which has resulted in 6,402 confimed assassinations of civilians so far during the mid-2000s. Tune in to hear about the False Positives, the hearing and what may happen next.

SHOW NOTES Kit McCarty invites Deann Alford to tell the miraculous story of a former hostage who helped broker peace and bring freedom in the war-torn country of Colombia. SHOW QUOTES I'm called to write. My mandate is moving people to pray, give, go, take action, listen to God, and do what He says. Obeying God is a risk. I don't want to miss my destiny by holding back. I do not want to miss out on what He created me to do. We're not here to play it safe. If God tells you to do something, do it. I'm going to do whatever it is. What is Jesus calling you to do? It is something you won't be able to do without Him. It's scary. God is always asking HIs people to take a risk. Do it terrified. Trust him. Trust God with your very life. If peace can come to the world's darkest places, it can happen anywhere. Period. There is no place where Jesus can not go.”REFERENCES Victorious: The Impossible Path to Peace Amazon: ​​https://www.amazon.com/s?k=victorious+alford&crid=ACHUMBLOS1DI&sprefix=victorious+alford%2Caps%2C110&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/victorious-deann-alford/1140505677?ean=2940165080043 Open Door International: http://www.opendoorintl.com/ Ray Rising: https://www.amazon.com/Guerrilla-Hostage-Dramatic-Colombian-Captivity/dp/0800756932 Wycliffe Bible Translators https://www.wycliffe.org/ YWAM https://ywam.org Prison Fellowship ​​https://prisonfellowship.org FARC https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revolutionary_Armed_Forces_of_Colombia CONTACT INFO Facebook: https://facebook.com/deann.alford.16 Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeannAlford Amazon: https://amzn.to/1jrs8DsProduction Now I See:  https://linktr.ee/nowisee/ Headset Radio: https://linktr.ee/headsetradio

Key Insights!:Hexapodia!Drop the embargo now!There is nothing that enables an authoritarian régime—or, indeed, pretty much any type of régime—hang together other than an implacable external enemy.For the Cuban military-bureaucratic junta-oligarchy, that implacable external enemy consists of the Cuban exiles in Miami and their descendantsReferences:Alexa van Sickle (2014): Viva la Revolución: Cuban Farmers Re-Gain Control Over Land: ‘As the state loosens its grip on food product… Damian Cave: Raúl Castro Thanks U.S., but Reaffirms Communist Rule in Cuba Marianne Ward and John Devereux (2010): The Road Not Taken: Pre-Revolutionary Cuban Living Standards in Comparative Perspective Brian Latell (2005): After Fidel: The Inside Story of Castro’s Régime and Cuba’s Next Leader New York: St. Martin’s Press, 2005 Carmelo Mesa-Lago (2019): There’s Only One Way Out for Cuba’s Dismal Economy Carlos Eire: Raúl Castro Leaving Power Won’t Bring Change to Cuba Anytime Soon Noah Smith: Why Cuba Is Having an Economic Crisis &, of course:Vernor Vinge: A Fire Upon the Deep Notes:Post-Fidel Timeline:2008 February - Raul Castro takes over as president, days after Fidel announces his retirement.2008 May - Bans on private ownership of mobile phones and computers lifted.2008 June - Plans are announced to abandon salary equality. The move is seen as a radical departure from the orthodox Marxist economic principles observed since the 1959 revolution. EU lifts diplomatic sanctions imposed on Cuba in 2003 over crackdown on dissidents.2008 July - In an effort to boost Cuba's lagging food production and reduce dependence on food imports, the government relaxes restrictions on the amount of land available to private farmers.2008 September - Hurricanes Gustav and Ike inflict worst storm damage in Cuba's recorded history, with 200,000 left homeless and their crops destroyed.2008 October - State oil company says estimated 20bn barrels in offshore fields, being double previous estimates.2008 November - Russian President Dmitry Medvedev visits. Two countries conclude new trade and economic accords in sign of strengthening relations. Raul Castro pays reciprocal visit to Russia in January 2009. Chinese President Hu Jintao visits to sign trade and investment accords, including agreements to continue buying Cuban nickel and sugar.2008 December - Russian warships visit Havana for first time since end of Cold War. Government says 2008 most difficult year for economy since collapse of Soviet Union. Growth nearly halved to 4.3%.2009 March - Two leading figures from Fidel era, Cabinet Secretary Carlos Lage and Foreign Minister Felipe Perez Roque, resign after admitting "errors". First government reshuffle since resignation of Fidel Castro. US Congress votes to lift Bush Administration restrictions on Cuban-Americans visiting Havana and sending back money.2009 April - US President Barack Obama says he wants a new beginning with Cuba.2009 May - Government unveils austerity programme to try to cut energy use and offset impact of global financial crisis.2009 June - Organisation of American States (OAS) votes to lift ban on Cuban membership imposed in 1962. Cuba welcomes decision, but says it has no plans to rejoin.2009 July - Cuba signs agreement with Russia allowing oil exploration in Cuban waters of Gulf of Mexico.2010 February - Political prisoner Orlando Zapata Tamayo dies after 85 days on hunger strike.2010 May - Wives and mothers of political prisoners are allowed to hold demonstration after archbishop of Havana, Jaime Ortega, intervenes on their behalf.2010 July - President Castro agrees to free 52 dissidents under a deal brokered by the Church and Spain. Several go into exile.2010 September - Radical plans for massive government job cuts to revive the economy. Analysts see proposals as biggest private sector shift since the 1959 revolution.2011 January - US President Barack Obama relaxes restrictions on travel to Cuba. Havana says the measures don't go far enough.2011 March - Last two political prisoners detained during 2003 crackdown are released.2011 April - Communist Party Congress says it will look into possibility of allowing Cuban citizens to travel abroad as tourists.2011 August - National Assembly approves economic reforms aimed at encouraging private enterprise and reducing state bureaucracy.2011 November - Cuba passes law allowing individuals to buy and sell private property for first time in 50 years.2011 December - The authorities release 2,500 prisoners, including some convicted of political crimes, as part of an amnesty ahead of a papal visit.2012 March - Pope Benedict visits, criticising the US trade embargo on Cuba and calling for greater rights on the island.2012 April - Cuba marks Good Friday with a public holiday for the first time since recognition of religious holidays stopped in 1959.2012 June - Cuba re-imposes customs duty on all food imports in effort to curb selling of food aid sent by Cubans abroad on the commercial market. Import duties had been liberalised in 2008 after series of hurricanes caused severe shortages.2012 October - Spanish politician Angel Carromero is jailed for manslaughter over the death of high-profile Catholic dissident Oswaldo Paya. Mr Carromero was driving the car when, according to the authorities, it crashed into a tree. Mr Paya's family say the car was rammed off the road after he had received death threats. The government abolishes the requirement for citizens to buy expensive exit permits when seeking to travel abroad. Highly-qualified professionals such as doctors, engineers and scientists will still require permission to travel, in order to prevent a brain drain.2012 November - President Raul Castro says the eastern province of Santiago was hard hit by Hurricane Sandy, with 11 people dead and more than 188,000 homes damaged. A United Nations report says Sandy destroyed almost 100,000 hectares of crops.2013 February - The National Assembly re-elects Raul Castro as president. He says he will stand down at the end of his second term in 2018, by which time he will be 86.2013 July - Five prominent veteran politicians, including Fidel Castro ally and former parliament leader Ricardo Alarcon, are removed from the Communist Party's Central Committee in what President Raul Castro calls a routine change of personnel.2014 January - First phase of a deepwater sea port is inaugurated by Brazil and Cuba at Mariel, a rare large foreign investment project on the island.2014 March - Cuba agrees to a European Union invitation to begin talks to restore relations and boost economic ties, on condition of progress on human rights. The EU suspended ties in 1996.2014 July - Russian President Vladimir Putin visits during a tour of Latin America, says Moscow will cancel billions of dollars of Cuban debt from Soviet times. Chinese President Xi Jinping visits, signs bilateral accords.2014 September/October - Cuba sends hundreds of frontline medical staff to West African countries hit by the Ebola epidemic.2014 December - In a surprise development, US President Barack Obama and Cuba's President Raul Castro announce moves to normalise diplomatic relations between the two countries, severed for more than 50 years.2015 January - Washington eases some travel and trade restrictions on Cuba.Two days of historic talks between the US and Cuba take place in Havana, with both sides agreeing to meet again. The discussions focus on restoring diplomatic relations but no date is set for the reopening of embassies in both countries. President Raul Castro calls on President Obama to use his executive powers to bypass Congress and lift the US economic embargo on Cuba.2015 February - Cuban and US diplomats say they have made progress in talks in Washington to restore full relations.2015 May - Cuba establishes banking ties with US, which drops country from list of states that sponsor terrorism.2015 July - Cuba and US reopen embassies and exchange charges d’affaires.2015 December - Cuban and US officials hold preliminary talks on mutual compensation.2016 January - US eases a number of trade restrictions with Cuba.2016 March - Cuba and the European Union agree to normalise relations. US President Barack Obama visits Cuba in the first US presidential visit there in 88 years.2016 May - Cuba takes steps to legalise small and medium-sized businesses as part of economic reforms.2016 November - Fidel Castro, former president and leader of the Cuban revolution, dies at the age of 90. Cuba declares nine days of national mourning.2017 January - Washington ends a long-standing policy which grants Cuban immigrants the right to remain in the US without a visa.2017 June - US President Donald Trump overturns some aspects of predecessor Barack Obama's policy on Cuba which brought about a thaw in relations between the two countries.2017 October - Diplomatic row over mysterious sonic attacks which are said to have affected the health of US and Canadian embassy staff in Havana.2018 April - Senior Communist Party stalwart Miguel Diaz-Canel becomes president, ending six decades of rule by the Castro family.2019 May - Cuba introduces food rationing.2020 March - Cuba closes its borders in an attempt to keep out the COVID-19 plague.2021 April - Raul Castro steps down as General Secretary of the Cuban Communist PartyAlexa van Sickle (2014): Viva la Revolución: Cuban Farmers Re-Gain Control Over Land: ‘As the state loosens its grip on food production, Cuban farmers and independent co-operatives will need support to help solve the country’s agriculture crisis: Last year, Cuba spent over $1.6bn (£1bn) on food imports… 60% of its domestic food requirement…. Since 2007, President Raul Castro, noting its connection with national security, has made food security a priority. State farms hold over 70% of Cuba’s agricultural land; about 6.7m hectares. In 2007, 45% of this land was sitting idle. In 2008 Castro allowed private farmers and co-operatives to lease unused land with decentralised decision-making, and loosened regulations on farmers selling directly to consumers. Since 2010, Cubans with small garden plots, and small farmers, have been allowed to sell produce directly to consumers. However, agriculture in Cuba remains in crisis. A government report issued in July 2013 showed that productivity had not increased…LINK: Marianne Ward and John Devereux (2010): The Road Not Taken: Pre-Revolutionary Cuban Living Standards in Comparative Perspective: ‘All indications are that Cuba was once a prosperous middle-income economy. On the eve of the revolution, we find that incomes were fifty to sixty percent of European levels. They were among the highest in Latin America at about thirty percent of the US. In relative terms, however, Cuba was richer earlier on. The crude income comparisons that are possible suggest that income per capita during the 1920’s was in striking distance of Western Europe and the Southern States of the US. After the revolution, Cuba has slipped down the world income distribution. As best we can tell, current levels of income per capita are below their pre-revolutionary peaks…LINK: Carlos Eire: Raúl Castro Leaving Power Won’t Bring Change to Cuba Anytime Soon: ‘Raúl Castro is relinquishing all power on the eve of his 90th birthday. It would be a mistake to think that this piece of kabuki theater will bring change to Cuba any time soon…. The Communist Party in Cuba, which has had total control of the island for over 60 years, is not about to relax its grip. And since this party is controlled by the Revolutionary Armed Forces, Cuba is really governed by an old-fashioned Latin American military junta. It is an unusual junta, full of former rebels, but it is a junta…. Raúl Castro is stepping down from the throne, so to speak, but he will keep casting a long shadow as long as he can. Moreover, plenty of generals and colonels remain, ranging in age from their 50s to 80s. A top member of that exclusive circle is Raúl’s son, Col. Alejandro Castro Espín, who is only 55 and runs the country’s dreaded secret police. Official posts outside of the armed forces have a cosmetic sheen to them. The prime example is President Miguel Díaz-Canel…. Raw power resides in men such as Alejandro Castro Espín and 60-year-old Gen. Luis Alberto Rodríguez López-Callejas, ex-husband of Raul’s daughter Deborah. A member of the Castro dynasty by marriage, he is one of the most powerful men in Cuba, totally in charge of the branch of the Revolutionary Armed Forces that runs most of Cuba’s tourist industry. Since tourism is the country’s main source of income, his clout is considerable. The two brothers-in-law are purported to be engaged in a fierce struggle behind the scenes for the throne vacated by Raúl…..A new constitution in 2019…. Many articles outlaw dissent, such as No. 4: “The socialist system that this Constitution supports is irrevocable. Citizens have the right to combat through any means, including armed combat… against any that intends to topple the political, social, and economic order established by this Constitution.”… Article 229 seeks to drive a nail in the coffin of hope: “In no case will the pronouncements be reformed regarding the irrevocability of the socialism system established in Article 4.”…What will happen next? Is it possible that among the younger Cuban communists a Gorbachev lurks?… Is it possible that the junta could be overthrown, somehow, in traditional Latin fashion? Theoretically, one must suppose, anything is possible…. Theoretical possibilities fall into the realm of faith rather than reason…LINK: Carmelo Mesa-Lago (2019): There’s Only One Way Out for Cuba’s Dismal Economy: ‘The island’s economy is neither efficient nor competitive. To move forward it must deepen and accelerate reforms. The market socialism model could provide a way….. For the past 60 years, Cuba has been unable to finance its imports with its own exports and generate appropriate, sustainable growth without substantial aid and subsidies from a foreign nation. This is the longstanding legacy of Cuba’s socialist economy…. Between 1960 and 1990, the Soviet Union gave Cuba $65 billion (triple the total amount of aid that President John Kennedy’s Alliance for Progress gave Latin America). At its peak in 2012, Venezuelan aid, subsidies and investment amounted to $14 billion, or close to 12 percent of the gross domestic product. And yet, despite the staggering foreign aid subsidies it has received, the economy’s performance has been dismal…. Industrial, mining and sugar production are well below 1989 levels, and the production of 11 out of 13 key agricultural and fishing products has declined. Cuba is now facing its worst economic crisis since the 1990s.Tourism has been a bright spot for Cuba. From 2007 to 2017, visitors to the island doubled, largely thanks to the arrival of more Americans, whose numbers grew considerably after President Barack Obama eased diplomatic relations in 2015. But Hurricane Irma and the tightening of travel restrictions by President Trump (like barring American tourists from using hotels and restaurants run by Cuba’s military) and the alert declared by the administration after the sonic attacks on United States diplomats in Havana led to a drop in tourism during the end of 2017 and the first half of 2018. Tourism rebounded in September, driven by a cruise industry that offers customers lodging, meals and tours. Those visitors spend about 14 percent of what those arriving by air spend….Cuba’s woes are a result of the inefficient economic model of centralized planning, state enterprises and agricultural collectivization its leaders have pursued despite the failure of these models worldwide. In his decade in power, President Raúl Castro tried to face his brother Fidel’s legacy of economic disaster head on by enacting a series of market-oriented economic structural reforms. He also opened the door to foreign investment, but so far, the amount materialized has been one-fifth of the goal set by the leadership for sustainable development…. The pace of reforms has been slow and subject to many restrictions, disincentives and taxes that have impeded the advance of the private economy and desperately needed growth. It is time to abandon this failed model and shift to a more successful one as in China and Vietnam….Poor agricultural production, the result of collectivized agriculture, causes the island to spend $1.5 billion a year on food imports. As part of his agrarian reform, Mr. Castro began leasing fallow state-owned land to farmers through 10-year contracts—now increased to 20 years—that may be canceled or renewed depending on the farms performance. Farmers must sell most of their crops to the government at prices set by the state, which are below market prices…. If reform is carried out and foreign investors are allowed to hire and pay a full salary directly to their employees, there will be a significant improvement in the economy and the government can undertake the desperately needed monetary unification that will attract more investment and eliminate the economic distortions that plague the economy.LINK: Cuba Employment Shares: Agriculture 25%, Industry 10%, Services 65%(Remember: You can subscribe to this… weblog-like newsletter… here: There’s a free email list. There’s a paid-subscription list with (at the moment, only a few) extras too.) Get full access to Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality at braddelong.substack.com/subscribe

Mother:The end result of this case unfolded live on television, watched the world over.  The resulting investigation took a long time to get to the truth but it really is stranger than fiction and even today, many disbelieve the official reports.....This week we discuss:  Murder, Bank Robbery, Conspiracy to Murder, Neck Bombs, South America, Death SquadsTheme Tune is published under license from:   Tribe of Noise – Awkward Mystery https://prosearch.tribeofnoise.com/artists/show/29267/32277Sources:https://imgur.com/a/RK7aDE6https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Death_of_Brian_Wellshttps://crimeola.com/brian-wells-wiki-hostage-conspirator-pizza-bomb-heist/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Revolutionary_Armed_Forces_of_Colombiahttp://www.latinamericanstudies.org/farc/elvia.htmhttps://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2000-may-19-mn-31761-story.htmlhttp://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/3036664.stmhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosman,_New_South_Waleshttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mosman_bomb_hoaxhttps://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/bomb-device-attached-to-mosman-schoolgirl-was-a-very-very-elaborate-hoax-20110804-1icbe.htmlhttps://www.couriermail.com.au/news/bomb-squad-authorities-cordon-off-mossman-street-amid-threat/news-story/fe8ee4c9afd3d4b8c4f9ff9aa6ebbdaehttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allco_Finance_Grouphttps://www.mamamia.com.au/madeleine-pulver-collar-bomb/https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7632951/Sydney-collar-bomb-v

Over the past month, Venezuela's military has launched an offensive against irregular Colombian armed groups in the western state of Apure. About eight Venezuelan soldiers have died during the operations, which have caused over 5,000 people from the area to flee across the border into Colombia.   These armed groups include dissident members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a Marxist paramilitary insurgency operating in Colombia for decades until they signed a 2016 peace treaty with the Colombian government. These dissident groups rejected the peace treaty and have been operating in clandestine rebel units accommodated by the Venezuelan regime of Nicolas Maduro.   In this episode, we're joined by Cody Weddle, an investigative freelance journalist based in Colombia who has been reporting for ABC affiliate WPLG Local 10 News from the Colombian border town of Arauquita, speaking with Venezuelans arriving in the area to escape the violence, and hearing firsthand the sounds of gunfire and explosions from across the Arauca River.   Cody was first based out of Caracas until 2019 when a group of armed Venezuelan officers raided his apartment with a court arrest warrant for treason and espionage. After being detained for over 24 hours, he was released, put on a plane to Miami, and effectively deported from Venezuela.   We discuss the escalating combat on the Colombia-Venezuela border, as well as the refugee crisis in Colombia, the special military unit created by Venezuela for the border region, and the harrowing stories about Venezuelan troops told by Venezuelans arriving from the makeshift war zone, including arbitrary detentions and murders of civilians.   If you enjoy the show, please consider subscribing!   Links:  Cody Weddle: https://www.twitter.com/coweddle   Cody Weddle's Story of Detainment in Venezuela: https://youtu.be/804ClXU9p_E   WPLG Local 10 Story on the Venezuela-Colombia border crisis: https://youtu.be/OA5DDtIJ3RY   Intro/Outro Song: tu+yo by Sad Lacra (https://youtu.be/Xaax2S74XhE)