Colombia's president-elect names ex-senator Paola Holguín as culture minister

Colombian President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has appointed former senator Paola Holguín as his next Minister of Culture, signaling a shift in the ministry's focus. The government, set to begin on August 7, aims to transform the cultural sector by prioritizing creative freedom and international projection of Colombian talent.

In an official statement, de la Espriella emphasized that the ministry will move away from political preferences to concentrate on audience development, artist support, and the formalization of traditional knowledge. The strategy aims to leverage cultural heritage and industries as key drivers for economic growth, global recognition, and social cohesion across the regions.

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Culture is the memory of a people, the expression of its identity, and one of Colombia's greatest strengths to the world.

Holguín, a social communicator and journalist, brings a legislative background focused on cultural heritage. During her tenure in the Senate from 2014 to 2026, she championed initiatives like the law declaring the 'carriel antioqueño' a national cultural heritage. She also has a history of research and political literature, having authored books on former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez's administration.

Her appointment marks a significant step in de la Espriella's cabinet formation, with 15 out of 18 ministerial positions now filled. Holguín is the sixth woman to join the executive team. The transition committee is still finalizing appointments for the Health, Labor, and Science ministries.

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A WARRIOR woman, from the province, who takes on the challenge of giving...