The gangs testing Colombia’s hardline new leader

In Colombia, a shift in government strategy has led to escalating violence in a once-thriving tourist area, now eerily quiet. Abelardo de la Espriella’s move away from his predecessor’s “total peace” approach has left locals and tourists alike in fear. This turmoil highlights the complexities of addressing long-standing gang influence and underscores the challenges of implementing new, hardline policies in a region scarred by decades of conflict. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required in peace and security strategies.