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How Medellin, Colombia's drug capital, reinvented itself

06:23

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Markus Böhnisch in Medellin, Colombia
April 16, 2025

The Colombian city of Medellin was notorious for Pablo Escobar's drug cartel and violent crime. But today, Medellin has been completely transformed. It boasts a thriving textile industry and attracts tourists from all over the world.

Medellin has been transformed into a thriving city with a growing tourism sector, cultural initiatives and a strong textile industry providing jobs to over 1.5 million people, many of whom are women and victims of armed conflict.

Entrepreneurs like Enrique Gomez are empowering small businesses, creating employment opportunities and supporting social stability, but the textile industry faces challenges from global competition. Initiatives like Clothing for Peace bring together former FARC fighters and victims to build a shared future, though financial support remains limited.

Tourism plays a key role in Medellin's economy, contributing to jobs and GDP growth, while the memory of Pablo Escobar fades as the city moves toward a brighter image. However, for this progress to continue, government support is crucial to sustaining the city's economic and social advancements.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.

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