In its request, the agency argued that these radio platforms were created to foster coexistence, reconciliation, and recognition of victims’ rights, as well as to provide education regarding the implementation of the pact between the government and the now-defunct Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in areas hardest hit by the conflict. “Their regional, news, cultural, and educational programming gives visibility to the voices of communities historically affected by the conflict, guarantees access to information of public interest, and strengthens local processes of reconciliation and the rebuilding of the social fabric,” the agency noted.

Therefore, it emphasized, decisions regarding their operation cannot be treated merely as a general matter of public radio programming.

While admitting the new government’s authority to review and adjust public media programming, the office stressed that any decision affecting the Peace Stations must take into account their unique nature and their focus on news, local communities, and specific demographic needs, as well as the commitments stemming from the Final Peace Agreement.

The Ombudsman’s Office thus called on the Ministry of Information and Communications Technologies and Inravisión (the Public Media System) to reevaluate the decision and take the necessary steps to ensure the continuity of programming for the 20 Peace Stations and the fulfillment of the purposes for which they were created.

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