Problematics
What are the main issues of Cartagena?
Poverty
About 47.8% of people in Cartagena are below the poverty line, and 12.6% are considered extremely poor. These people are living in the shadow of a large city and face numerous issues, including prostitution, lack of access to healthcare, and limited education resulting in reduced job opportunities and lower literacy rates.
Prostitution
For over 24 years, prostitution has been practiced in Cartagena, and it has grown quickly. In the historic center, groups of girls are more common at night. Child exploitation and labor are part of this issue.
Inequality
There is a large socioeconomic divide in Cartagena, with rich neighborhoods experiencing economic growth thanks to tourists while poverty and unemployment are widespread problems, with marginalized communities suffering disproportionately. Communities face limited prospects, poor quality of public service, and education varies. It is imperative to close the gap and raise living standards.
Corruption
Corruption is a serious issue that is poorly documented in Cartagena. There have been numerous changes in the city's government administrations, and there have been multiple examples of bribery and corruption. This scenario is evident in the extreme poverty and social inequalities that exist in the city.
Sanitation (water)
With water bodies like the Ciénaga de la Virgen and the Juan Angola Canal with feces and communities suffering flooding from their drains into Cartagena Bay, Ciénaga de la Virgen, and the sea because of the absence of contact between them. growing at high tide and rains. Additional pollutants from the Mamonal industrial zone and everyday deep-draft ships from nearby La Heroica ports are contaminating the Cartagena Bay.
Pollution
Cartagena's industrial sites, such as oil refineries and chemical industries, release pollutants into the air and water as a result of rising car emissions. Also, the poisoned waterways and poor waste management endanger both marine life and public health. Pollution gets worse as a result of increased tourism. Local ecosystems are further impacted by extreme weather, climate change, and increasing sea levels.