Poverty in Colombia as a Case Study: Structural Factors and Intervention Proposals

Abstract

The objective of this article is to address the issue of poverty in Colombia through the case study method, starting from the structural conditions, social impacts and possible interventions. From secondary documentation, specifically official statistics, academic articles and institutional documents, the central elements that perpetuate it are identified, such as the concentration of wealth and inequality of access to basic services. Likewise, the article analyzes different initiatives and policy measures, such as the Universal Basic Income, to judge their relevance and capacity to reduce the social and economic vulnerability of the Colombian population. The article argues that, although there are some measures to reduce its problem, current interventions are still insufficient, partly due to structural conditions and lack of commitment to address the full regimen, and partly due to limited community participation in strategy design. Rather, a comprehensive approach is needed that addresses the economic, social and political elements of poverty and fosters active collaboration between public and private institutions and the community itself.