Colombia’s left-wing government reduces poverty amid rising debt

Laura Espinel realized her dream of becoming an artist thanks to Colombia’s “zero tuition” program, initiated by President Gustavo Petro’s administration in 2023, which covers tuition costs for public universities. This initiative has assisted 870,000 students from low- and middle-income families. As Colombia approaches a presidential election on May 31, candidates Ivan Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella present contrasting visions for the country’s future, with Cepeda advocating for the continuation of Petro’s social policies and de la Espriella proposing significant cuts to government spending.

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