Hemispheric Security Forum in Colombia Warns of Authoritarian Influence

The Strategic Forum of Hemispheric Security and Democracy convened on 2 June at the Colombian Congress, drawing experts and officials to discuss threats to democracy across the Americas. Cyber‑security specialist Dr. Luis Noguerol highlighted the covert activities of authoritarian actors, stressing that China’s influence in the region must be examined beyond economics for its political, technological and social implications. Colombian Senator Paola Holguín warned that extraregional authoritarian forces are increasingly targeting Latin American institutions, critical infrastructure and regional security, urging stronger alliances among democracies, transparent international agreements and protection of strategic sectors.

Forum participants called for a shared vision of hemispheric security that links North and South America, emphasizing the need to reinforce democratic institutions, uphold sovereignty and coordinate strategic cooperation against complex, evolving threats.