Silencio en las regiones: Tumaco y los desafíos del periodismo en Colombia frente a la censura estatal y la violencia

Abstract

The annual report by the Foundation for Press Freedom (FLIP), titled "Predatory State" (Estado Depredador), reveals a critical landscape for journalism in Colombia during 2017, recording 310 attacks against the press. The analysis highlights that censorship stems not only from traditional violent actors but also from public institutions and political leaders who stigmatize the media. Cases of obstruction of local media, judicial rulings that violate professional secrecy, and an official discourse that delegitimizes reporting have created a toxic atmosphere that fosters self-censorship. In regions such as Tumaco, the lack of information facilitates human rights violations, while the rise of social media presents challenges for digital literacy in the face of echo chambers and fake news. The report criticizes the administration of Juan Manuel Santos for failing to fulfill promises regarding collective reparations and protection policies, underlining that the absence of a robust media ecosystem in rural regions jeopardizes both the implementation of the peace process and the health of Colombian democracy