Mariana Palau

Mariana Palau, a correspondent for The Economist, dives into the ongoing civil unrest in Colombia, sparked by proposed tax reforms and amplified by economic inequality. She shares insights from her conversation with President Iván Duque, who grapples with declining public support and rising protests. The discussion sheds light on the youth's frustration over unemployment and corruption, and the shifting political landscape that hints at a potential leadership change. Additionally, Palau highlights the broader impacts of this unrest on Colombia's future.

Mariana Palau, a journalist focused on Colombia for The Economist, provides deep insights into the ongoing protests against tax reforms that have escalated into a broader fight against President Iván Duque's administration. She discusses the violent turn of these demonstrations and the significant impact on daily life in Colombia. Additionally, the conversation shifts to the overlooked environmental consequences of military operations and the push for greener practices within armed forces, highlighting a transition towards renewable energy initiatives.

Su Lin Wong, the China correspondent for The Economist based in Hong Kong, discusses the legal battles faced by pro-democracy activists in a city sliding into authoritarianism. Mariana Palau, covering the violence against activists in Colombia, highlights the alarming rise in threats and killings following the 2016 peace deal. Both guests shed light on the dire circumstances for advocates of change, while drawing parallels to Oregon’s drug decriminalization experiment, pushing for comprehensive solutions to social issues.