Programa, Quindío, Armenia 1

Abstract

In the Voces y Regiones program, the Minister of the Interior, Fernando Carrillo Flórez, introduces the station and welcomes listeners interested in actively participating in the construction of the country. This space aims to bring citizens closer to issues related to democratic participation, human rights, and the strengthening of democracy in Colombia. In the first episode, the mechanisms of citizen participation established in the Political Constitution of Colombia of 1991 are discussed. This constitution grants citizens various tools to influence public decisions and ensure social control. Among these mechanisms are the referendum, plebiscite, popular consultation, legislative initiative, open council, and recall of mandate. These instruments allow citizens to participate directly in decision-making, express their will, and defend their rights. The program emphasizes the fundamental relationship between human rights, democracy, and citizen participation, highlighting that a democratic society is strengthened when its citizens can exercise their rights and actively participate in public affairs. Citizen participation is not only a fundamental right but also an essential mechanism to ensure transparency, accountability, and the consolidation of the Social Rule of Law. Additionally, the importance of the tutela action in Colombia is highlighted as a key tool for protecting citizens' fundamental rights. The tutela allows any person to request immediate protection of their rights when they have been violated or threatened by actions or omissions of public or private entities. Since its inclusion in the 1991 Constitution, this mechanism has been a fundamental pillar in guaranteeing effective access to justice and the protection of human rights.