Colombia’s first left-wing gov’t has reduced poverty, but has pile of debt | Elections

Colombia's first left-wing government, led by Gustavo Petro, has implemented several social policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality. These include tuition waivers for public university students, a minimum wage increase, and investments in renewable energy. However, the government also increased debt to fund these initiatives, which now presents a challenge for the next president. The incoming president will need to balance economic growth with social spending while addressing rising violence and trade tensions with Ecuador. The election between Ivan Cepeda and Abelardo de la Espriella is expected to determine the future direction of Colombia's economy and social policies.