National strike on November 21st in Colombia

The Member Centers of CLACSO – Colombia and their researchers recognize the legitimacy and legality of social mobilization and protest as expressions that give vitality to democratic processes.

In that order, we recognize the importance of the National Strike on November 21st, called by various social, labor, and women's organizations and by broad expressions of the Colombian social and popular movement in rejection of the labor, pension, and tax reforms; the financial holding company; the possible privatization of public companies; the increase in electricity rates; corruption; the non-compliance with the agreements signed with the educational community; the destruction of nature, as well as the defense of social protest.

We also raise concerns about the non-compliance and obstacles hindering the implementation of the Final Peace Agreement. We call on the National Government to decisively advance this process to help curb the violence plaguing our territories, which is responsible for the systematic assassination of our social leaders and former combatants. Effective implementation is essential for a stable and lasting peace.

Likewise, we reject the stigmatization campaign that has been gaining momentum through social media and various news outlets, which claims that this mobilization is part of an international strategy to destabilize Latin American democracies and incite violence against society in general. Social leaders are not criminals; on the contrary, they are the ones who contribute to democratic expansion. It is essential to guarantee them all the democratic rights necessary to carry out their work in their communities.

We call on the National Government to provide all necessary guarantees for the mobilization scheduled for November 21st. We also join in the call for a peaceful and organized protest.

CLACSO Member Centers Network – Colombia

[+] Latin American and Caribbean Front
in the struggle for democracy and the people