Colombia: Angie Alquichides Barred from Covering Demonstrations

Several journalists were verbally abused, forcing them to suspend coverage. 

Location: Colombia, Bogotá

Date: February 9, 2024

Women Press Freedom stands in unwavering solidarity with Angie Alquichides and other journalists who were subjected to unacceptable hostility while attempting to report on the protests in Bogotá, Colombia. The aggressive actions taken against journalists by protestors, which included verbal abuses, threats, and physical intimidation, are not only deplorable but also undermine the very principles of freedom of expression and press freedom. The incidents experienced by journalists, who were surrounded and assaulted by demonstrators, highlight a disturbing trend of hostility towards the media. These journalists were engaged in their professional duty to cover significant political events — a role that is critical in shedding light on societal issues and fostering an informed public discourse. Their forced withdrawal from the scene due to safety concerns is a direct attack on the right to free press and the public's right to know. Women Press Freedom calls upon the Colombian authorities to promptly and thoroughly investigate these incidents, holding those responsible accountable for their actions. It is imperative that steps are taken to ensure the safety and security of journalists, allowing them to report freely and without hindrance. Furthermore, we urge all parties involved in demonstrations to respect the role of the media and to foster an environment where journalists can conduct their work safely and without fear of retribution.

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On February 9, 2024, journalists from Blu Radio, La FM, and RCN television were assaulted by a group of protesters in Bogotá. The protesters, who had been stirred up by President Gustavo Petro, blocked the entrances to Colombia's Palace of Justice, insisting on the appointment of a new chief prosecutor. The turmoil in the capital city came about after the high court announced its failure, yet again, to choose a successor for the retiring Prosecutor General, Francisco Barbosa.

During their attempt to report on the upheaval, Angie Alquichides, a journalist from RCN, along with her cameraman, found themselves in a threatening scenario when a man demanded to know their affiliation with the media organization. The situation quickly escalated as more people joined, shouting "Get out of here" and attempting to physically harm them. It was only through the intervention of Bogotá's Mayor's Office officials that they were able to escape the volatile situation and seek refuge. 

Similarly, while trying to cover the demonstrations in front of the Palace of Justice, journalists, including one from Blu Radio, faced insults, harassment, and aggressive questioning from protestors. The Blu Radio journalist found himself surrounded by a group of 15-20 people hurling accusations of being "liars," and "corrupt" leading them to halt their coverage to ensure their safety.

Meanwhile, La FM reporter Aldair Rodríguez faced a similar ordeal while conducting a live broadcast. A man approached him, questioning the news program he was working for and issuing warnings against affiliations with specific media outlets. Despite attempting to continue his reporting, Rodríguez was repeatedly interrupted and surrounded by a group of around ten protestors.

These attacks are not isolated incidents but part of a worrying trend where journalists, in their quest to report the truth, face dangers that threaten their safety and the very essence of press freedom. The role of journalists is indispensable in a democratic society, where information serves as the bedrock of public discourse and accountability. The aggression towards Angie Alquichides and her peers is an attack on the fundamental rights that underpin our society, including the freedom of expression and the press.

Women Press Freedom condemns in the strongest terms the harassment and intimidation of journalists in Bogotá. We stand in solidarity with Angie Alquichides and all journalists who have been subjected to such unacceptable treatment. It is imperative that authorities ensure justice is served by conducting a thorough investigation into these incidents and holding those responsible accountable. Furthermore, we call upon the Colombian government and the organizers of demonstrations to foster an environment that respects and protects the work of journalists. Their role in documenting events, including protests, is critical in maintaining a well-informed public and supporting the democratic process.

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

If you have been harassed or abused in any way, and please report the incident by using the following form.