Colombians are taking to the streets this Friday
to demand the release of all hostages. The march is not just a call for an immediate release, but also to
support the approximately 2,800 hostages currently held captive in the country.
At 10AM local time, marches began in all major cities of Colombia. Organizers are expecting a turn out of millions of people.
Protesters were asked to wear white t-shirts.
The demonstration was called for by former hostage Ingrid Betancourt and immediately was supported by Colombia’s most important media outlets. It receives the backing of many non-governmental peace and victims organizations and the national government.
Approximately 2,800 people are held hostages in Colombia. 700 of them are estimated to be held by the FARC, the remaining 2,100 by smaller groups like ELN, paramilitary groups or common criminals.