Ingrid Betancourt
Looking back at 2008 in Colombia
The global financial meltdown dominated the news headlines across the world this year. But in Colombia it was, as always, the country’s armed conflict. What Colombians will remember 2008 for: The death of FARC’s iconic founder and leader, Manuel Marulanda, who led the guerrilla group for over 40 years. The death of Raul Reyes, Farc’s […]
Farc are weakened but prospects for peace remain remote
There’s been much speculation in Colombia and among international pundits about whether the Farc are on their way out. Thomas Shannon, US assistant Secretary for Western Hemisphere Affairs echoes the views of many, when he recently said the Farc “are in their final phase.” One local analyst believes that in 10 years time, the Farc […]
Live tonight: Is this the end for FARC?
View in iTunes You can now watch the event here. With the recent release of Igrid Betancourt, we’ll be discussing the future of the FARC at the Frontline Club tonight. Please come watch, listen and join in live on the Frontline Club live broadcast channel. We go live at 7.30pm GMT. The question up for […]
Those left behind in the jungle
The rescue of 15 hostages from the clutches of Farc guerrillas is probably the most important event in years in Colombia. It’s also probably the biggest political triumph of President Uribe’s six years in power. Colombia is rejoicing and enjoying a rare respite from its ugly and unrelenting conflict. The next couple of weeks will […]
Letters from the jungle
Ingrid Betancourt, a former presidential candidate who has dual French-Colombian citizenship, is perhaps Colombia’s most well-known hostage. She was kidnapped along a motorway with Clara Rojas, her aide, six years ago while on the campaign trail. Her two children continue to campaign for her release. Last October, Ingrid wrote a letter to her mother in […]