Colombia’s first left-wing gov’t has reduced poverty, but has pile of debt
Colombia's first left-wing government, led by Gustavo Petro, has implemented social policies that have reduced poverty, such as a zero tuition program benefiting 870,000 students. However, the government faces significant challenges with a national debt equivalent to 58.5% of GDP, which limits its spending capabilities. As the country prepares for a new presidential election, candidates represent starkly different economic approaches amidst ongoing social reforms.
- ▪The zero tuition program launched in 2023 has helped 870,000 students from middle- and lower-income families.
- ▪Colombia's national debt stands at 58.5% of GDP, posing challenges for future government spending.
- ▪Gustavo Petro's administration raised the minimum wage by 23%, significantly higher than previous increases.
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Economy|ElectionsColombia’s first left-wing gov’t has reduced poverty, but has pile of debtA big challenge for Colombia’s next president will be how to reduce the country’s debt without sacrificing social gains. ListenListen (11 mins)SaveClick here to share on social mediashare-nodesSharefacebookxwhatsapp-strokecopylinkgoogleAdd Al Jazeera on GoogleinfoA street vendor in Bogota carries campaign materials for left-wing presidential candidate Ivan Cepeda and his running mate, Aida Quilcue [Daniela Diaz Rangel/Al Jazeera]By Daniela Diaz RangelPublished On 28 May 202628 May 2026Bogota, Colombia: Laura Espinel would not have been able to fulfill her dream of becoming an artist without the “zero tuition” programme launched in 2023 by Gustavo Petro’s administration.The programme covers up to 100…
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