Virgilio Barco

Virgilio Barco became President of Colombia in 1986. His administration focused on economic liberalization, infrastructure development, and continuing the war against drug cartels.

Barco escalated the war against Pablo Escobar's Medell

Barco initiated a gradual economic opening, reducing tariffs and promoting foreign investment. His policies laid the groundwork for Colombia's later integration into global markets, though they faced opposition from protectionist sectors.

Barco proposed a constitutional reform to modernize the state and address political violence. His initiative led to the 1991 Constitutional Convention after his presidency, which produced a new constitution.