Join us for a special event with Álvaro Uribe, former President of Colombia (2002–2010), whose leadership marked a pivotal chapter in the country’s modern history. Under his presidency, Colombia underwent a dramatic shift in security, governance, and investor confidence—paving the way for economic recovery and growth in a region long challenged by instability.
This session will explore President Uribe’s policy legacy, with a particular focus on how improved security frameworks enabled private sector expansion, foreign investment, and institutional reform. His administration’s role in reshaping Colombia’s international reputation and economic trajectory remains one of the most debated and influential case studies in Latin America’s development story.
With open remarks from Sergei Guriev, Dean of London Business School and organised by the Wheeler Institute for Business and Development, the event will provide a platform to reflect on the intersection of leadership, economic policy, and the broader implications for business and development in emerging markets.
Date/Time: Thursday 29 May 2025, 18:00 BST
Location: LT18 & 19, Sammy Ofer Centre, London Business School
Speakers
Álvaro Uribe Vélez served as President of Colombia from 2002 to 2010. A graduate of Harvard and the University of Antioquia, Uribe began his political career as Mayor of Medellín, later becoming a senator and then Governor of Antioquia. As President, he led a controversial yet transformative agenda known as Democratic Security, which significantly reduced crime and insurgent violence, reasserted state control over territory, and set the foundation for Colombia’s economic stabilization.
During his two terms, Colombia experienced notable GDP growth, a surge in foreign direct investment, and improved business confidence. Uribe’s policies enabled the private sector to operate in regions previously dominated by armed groups, and his market-friendly approach contributed to stronger ties with international trade partners. Post-presidency, Uribe has remained an influential figure in Colombian politics and international forums, speaking on governance, regional stability, and economic development. His legacy continues to shape debates around security, growth, and democracy in Latin America.