COOwnership & classification
Founded: 2009
Ownership
La Silla Vacía is a Colombian political news website founded in 2009 by journalist Juanita León, a Harvard Nieman Fellow, as one of Latin America's first native digital outlets. In 2024 León transferred her ownership shares to the non-profit La Silla Vacía Foundation, which now controls the outlet, a move made to entrench editorial independence and continuity beyond its founder.
Funding
It runs on a diversified non-profit model: grants from donors such as the Ford Foundation, Open Society, the National Endowment for Democracy, USAID, the World Bank, CAF and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung; reader memberships ('SuperAmigos'); fact-checking partnerships; courses and events; and limited advertising.
Affiliation & stance
It focuses on scrutinizing how political power is exercised in Colombia, with a center to center-left analytical stance, and has no ties to any party, the state or a business owner. Owned by a journalist-founded non-profit foundation and financed by membership and independent grants, it is classified as INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 274
83/100
Factual
74/100
Objective
316
Articles
316
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
Without recognizing Abelardo's victory, Pacto announces a new political stage
Desobediencia civil en el “Arca de Noé”
La foto: Petro se reunió con el Papa León XIV en el Vaticano
What the vote of almost 20,000 students tells us about Colombian democracy
Previsalud: more than 25 years bringing quality health where it is needed most
Prosecutor's office is investigating Daniel Quintero for political involvement
The strong message of Rodrigo Lara to the congressmen of the Historical Pact who will make opposition to Abelardo De La Espriella
Recent coverage
Con reglas definidas, Restrepo y Ávila llegan a la primera reunión de empalme
The transition between Colombia's outgoing and incoming governments has officially begun with the first meeting between Germán Ávila, the current Minister of Finance, and José Manuel Restrepo, the designated representative of the new government. The process starts amid President Gustavo Petro's absence on a trip to Italy and as Congress prepares to begin a new legislative term. Restrepo had previously outlined six conditions for the transition, emphasizing that it should not be limited to a 'simple transfer of documents.' These included appointing two officials per ministry as liaisons, establishing a schedule for meetings, creating mechanisms to track information, defining handling procedures for sensitive data, extending the transition until July 27, and involving the Office of the Attorney General and the Comptroller General. In response, Ávila confirmed the government would initiate the transition in an 'ordered, transparent, responsible, and respectful' manner. The government issued a directive outlining the rules for the transition, including forming a committee, setting up work plans, sectoral subcommittees, working tables, and recording all meetings. The team accompanying副总
MinDefensa: 65 children killed in bombings not accurate
The article discusses a report by Colombia’s National Institute of Legal Medicine, which recorded 65 deaths of minors under 18 during military operations under President Gustavo Petro. The institute’s director, Ariel Cortés, highlighted that most victims were adolescents aged 14–17 in regions like Guaviare, Arauca, and Putumayo. In response, Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez disputed the accuracy of the figure, arguing that the count includes individuals involved in hostilities and that military intelligence has prevented collateral damage. He blamed armed groups such as 'Mordisco,' 'Calarcá,' and the Clan del Golfo for recruiting minors into violence. Both Petro and Sánchez defended the legality of the bombings, citing an earlier report to U.S. President Donald Trump that claimed zero civilian casualties, asserting that minors involved in combat were targeted. The article frames the issue as a conflict between state actions and illegal armed groups, emphasizing the state’s justification for military operations.
De La Espriella quiere partido político propio y pone a prueba al CNE
Abelardo de La Espriella, recently declared president by the National Electoral Council (CNE), has begun forming his own political party called 'Defensores de La Patria.' The movement currently lacks legal recognition and cannot participate in future elections until the CNE formally acknowledges it. De La Espriella argues he has the right to establish the party due to receiving 12.9 million votes in the presidential election. However, the CNE faces challenges in recognizing new parties, as previous approvals were later overturned by the State Council due to procedural errors. Some CNE judges may favor granting recognition to align with political interests, especially since two judges aim to run in regional elections in 2027 and could benefit from supporting the president’s party. The formation of this party tests the CNE’s independence and adherence to strict legal requirements.
Government and coffee growers extend administration of National Coffee Fund
The Colombian government and the National Coffee Federation (FNC) have agreed to extend the administration of the National Coffee Fund by five more months. The agreement was reached after meetings between FNC manager Germán Bahamón and ministers Germán Ávila (Finance) and Martha Carvajalino (Agriculture). The fund, which is financed through a six-cent-per-pound tax on exported coffee, supports research, promotion, and support for coffee growers. It benefits approximately 560,000 families. While President Gustavo Petro has historically criticized private groups like the FNC managing public funds, this extension comes despite his previous attempts to change the leadership of the federation. Critics, including former Minister Juan Camilo Restrepo and representatives from coffee-growing regions, have raised concerns about the influence of powerful individuals within the federation.
Venezuela ya suma 1.430 muertos por terremoto
A powerful double earthquake measuring 7.2 and 7.5 struck the central coast of Venezuela, resulting in over 1,430 deaths and 3,328 injuries. The tremors triggered more than 130 aftershocks, some exceeding magnitude 6. The most affected state, La Guaira, remains under military control with restricted access and limited media presence. International rescue teams from at least eleven countries, including 63 Colombian rescuers, have arrived in Venezuela with humanitarian aid. The United Nations has emphasized coordination through the Venezuelan government to avoid duplication of efforts. Damage includes collapsed buildings, trapped people and animals, and disruptions to communications and infrastructure across several states. The US Geological Survey estimates economic losses could reach up to 7% of Venezuela’s GDP, with a 41% chance of fatalities ranging between 10,000 and 100,000. Venezuela’s interim president announced a $200 million reconstruction fund and suspended non-essential activities. Colombia confirmed 24 Colombian nationals died in the disaster, with 47 others, including 19 child athletes, repatriated.
With scalpel and fine brush: the fiscal adjustment Colombia needs
The article discusses the urgent need for fiscal adjustment in Colombia following recent elections, emphasizing the complexity of balancing economic growth with public spending. It highlights the challenges faced by the next government, including managing state-dependent economies, reducing debt, and avoiding negative impacts on growth and inequality. The Comité Autónomo de la Regla Fiscal reports that fiscal adjustments could range between 4% and 6.1% of GDP by the end of the decade, with projections indicating rising national debt. The article notes that public spending has been a significant driver of economic growth, but continued reliance on state support risks undermining private investment and productivity. Projections suggest that if current trends continue, Colombia may face severe fiscal constraints by 2027.
Informed breakfast with the keys to this July 3, 2026
The article covers several key developments in Venezuela on July 3, 2026. Five days after being officially declared president by the National Electoral Council (CNE), Abelardo De la Espriella founded his political party 'Defensores de La Patria' to qualify for state funding and electoral endorsements. He claims eligibility based on receiving 12.9 million votes. This move could challenge the outgoing CNE, which includes magistrates potentially interested in regional elections. President Delcy Rodríguez reported over 2,595 deaths and 12,400 injured from two earthquakes on June 24, affecting La Guaira state. The incoming government transition teams will meet at Casa de Nariño. Meanwhile, Colombia's national team faces Ghana in the World Cup, with potential next-round matches against Switzerland. The earthquakes triggered a humanitarian crisis, raising questions about political, economic, and migration impacts on Venezuela and neighboring countries like Colombia.
Migration, poverty and inequality: the challenges to be discussed by world leaders in New York
The article discusses migration, poverty, and inequality as critical issues to be addressed by world leaders at the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development 2026 in New York. Migration has evolved beyond border movements and now poses significant challenges for Latin American governments, particularly in managing population flows while pursuing poverty reduction and economic development. The United Nations highlights the impact of human mobility on institutional stability, social protection systems, and the ability of states to ensure fundamental rights. Colombia plays a central role in this discussion, facing the challenge of integrating migrants through mechanisms like regularization, access to financial services, and employment inclusion. International experts, such as Steven Gutiérrez, will explore whether migration can become a driver of sustainable development, emphasizing the need for legal documentation, financial services, and international cooperation to protect migrant rights and promote social cohesion.
María Fernanda Ortiz leaves the management of TransMilenio with advances in electrification, technology and user satisfaction
The outgoing manager of TransMilenio, María Fernanda Ortiz, presented a report on her tenure, highlighting progress in system operations, transition to electric mobility, technological modernization, and institutional strengthening before taking up her new role as Bogotá's District Mobility Secretary. The report noted that despite challenges such as construction projects, closures, and blockages, the system maintained service for over four million daily trips. Ortiz emphasized the importance of TransMilenio as a social infrastructure supporting daily life in Bogotá. Key achievements included the expansion of the electric bus fleet to 1,543 vehicles, with a target of reaching 2,297 by 2027, and the awarding of Phase VI, which includes 269 electric articulated and bi-articulated buses. Technological advancements included the launch of TransMiPass, updates to TransMiApp, and the operation of a new Integrated Control Center. User satisfaction reached 78% in the first half of 2026, nine points higher than at the start of the administration.
Terms of reference for the new head of the health sector
The article discusses the current state of Colombia's health sector under the previous administration, highlighting concerns over increased tutelas (legal actions) due to barriers in accessing healthcare services and a regression in financial protection for the poorest 10 million Colombians. The tenure of two former ministers, Carolina Corcho and Guillermo Alfonso Jaramillo, is criticized for breaking an informal agreement that kept healthcare out of political conflict and weakening technical capacity within the system. The health sector was once recognized across Latin America for its efficiency and low per capita spending while maintaining high access indicators. However, recent policies have led to a decline in governance, trust, and performance. The article emphasizes the need for the next health minister to prioritize independence, strategic direction, and effective governance to address both immediate crises and long-term challenges.
Government of Colombia sends new flight with humanitarian aid for those affected by earthquakes in Venezuela
The Colombian government has sent another humanitarian flight to Venezuela as part of an inter-institutional response to recent earthquakes in the neighboring country. The flight operated by FAC and coordinated by UNGRD carries 3,200 emergency items, 8 tons of food supplies, 680 kilograms of medicine, and 900 bags for dignified handling of deceased individuals. It also includes tents, mattresses, blankets, sheets, and hygiene kits. The plane departed from Colombia on June 29, 2026, heading to Maiquetía Airport in La Guaira, where it will deliver aid and return with 47 Colombian citizens affected by the disaster. The Consulate in Caracas is coordinating the registration and verification of documents for returning citizens, issuing 14 emergency passports for those who lost their documentation during the earthquake. Additionally, 19 Colombian nationals are presumed missing. The operation continues efforts initiated by the Colombian government, with 140 Colombians registered at Maiquetía Airport, of whom 47 returned. The Red Cross has launched a donation campaign in Colombia for victims in Venezuela, accepting monetary donations but not physical aid.
The Tino Asprilla calls a multitudinous cavalcade to "dismiss" to Gustavo Petro
Former Colombian footballer Faustino 'El Tino' Asprilla has sparked controversy by announcing a symbolic event called the 'Gran Cabalgata de despedida de los de la Casa de Nariño,' scheduled for August 1 at his ranch in Tuluá, Valle del Cauca. The event is widely interpreted as a farewell to President Gustavo Petro’s administration, despite Asprilla clarifying it is not a competitive race but a symbolic gathering. He invited all attendees regardless of political affiliation, emphasizing participation over political alignment. The announcement generated strong reactions online, with some viewing it as a festive critique of the current government and others seeing it as divisive during a sensitive period of presidential transition. Asprilla had previously been active in supporting Abelardo De La Espriella’s presidential campaign.
Sleep informed with the keys to this July 2, 2026
The article covers several key developments in Colombia’s political transition. It reports that President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has appointed Fabio Arjona, a former environmental official, as Minister of Environment, marking a shift from the previous administration’s community-focused approach. The first meeting between outgoing and incoming governments was described as amicable, with plans for continued coordination. The Attorney General rejected a request to delay the investigation into former president Álvaro Uribe over alleged crimes against humanity, which Uribe called politically motivated. Vice President-elect José Manuel Restrepo urged the current government not to introduce a new tax reform, while the incoming finance minister criticized past fiscal policies. Additionally, the Council of State temporarily suspended a resolution allowing negotiations with the Second Marquetalia rebel group.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Today starts payment for Sunday surcharge of 90% approved in labor reform
LGBTIQ+ pride: this is how the marches in Bogotá move forward
Agustín Laje spoke to SEMANA and rejected the petrism campaign on Argentina and the alleged failure of Milei.
