The government of Gustavo Petro and Francia Márquez has initiated an ambitious health reform in Colombia, which could make essential care more accessible to the people. Health activists from the WHO Watch program met with Dr. Jaime Urrego, Vice-Minister of Health of Colombia, to discuss its impacts.

Colombia’s right has launched a coordinated attack on the government of progressive President Gustavo Petro

Following a scandal involving the former chief of staff Laura Sarabia and former ambassador to Venezuela Armando Benedetti, Colombia’s right-wing forces have increased attacks against the Petro government. Trade unions and progressive sectors are rallying to the defense of the government

The health reform bill seeks to transform the current system in Colombia. Amongst other things it calls for creating healthcare access points in each neighborhood and town of the country to ensure access to all citizens

Cuba, Ecuador, Chile and Norway have been chosen to mediate the negotiations between Petro’s administration and the guerrilla group

The recent victory of Gustavo Petro and Francia Márquez at the presidential election in Colombia, a great sense of hope has arisen when protection of health rights is concerned

The victory of the Historic Pact is expected to bring an end to decades of conservative and neoliberal politics which have dominated the country.

In addition to Quintero, many other representatives including the Mayor of Ibagué, Andrés Hurtado were also suspended from their positions for their political participation.