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Colombia’s president has unveiled plans to dismantle the country’s long-standing neighborhood-based social class system in a bid to combat economic segregation. For decades, Colombia has classified neighborhoods into different strata, a system intended to provide subsidies to lower-income areas. However, this approach has inadvertently reinforced economic divides, concentrating wealth in certain areas and perpetuating inequality.
“Economic segregation has become a significant barrier to social mobility in our country,” the president stated in a recent address. “It’s time we address the root causes and work towards a more inclusive society.”
The current system assigns neighborhoods a number from 1 to 6, determining utility rates and access to services based on the area’s socioeconomic level. While originally designed to ensure that poorer communities received necessary subsidies, critics argue that it has led to stigmatization and limited opportunities for residents in lower-strata areas.
Many young Colombians have voiced support for the proposed changes. “Growing up, I felt limited by the strata system,” said Daniela, a university student from Bogotá. “It’s unfair that your address can determine your future.”
The government plans to introduce new policies aimed at reducing geographic wealth disparities and promoting equal opportunities regardless of one’s neighborhood. Details of the proposed reforms are expected to be released in the coming months.
The move has sparked conversations across the nation about the impact of systemic structures on social equity. As Colombia grapples with these challenges, many hope that dismantling the neighborhood-based class system will pave the way for a more unified and equitable society.
