According to 2024 figures from the National Institute of Statistics, 9,529 people of Colombian nationality reside in Navarra, 54% of whom are women. This community represents the third largest foreign nationality in the Foral community. Against the backdrop of this scenario, the authorities of Navarra and diplomatic representatives of Colombia held a meeting with the aim of addressing issues related to the integration of migrants, as well as analyzing opportunities in the employment and social sphere for those who arrived in Navarra from Colombia.
As reported by the Government of Navarra through an official message, the First Vice President and Counselor for the Presidency and Equality, Felix Taberna, met with the Colombian Ambassador to Spain, Eduardo Ávila. The meeting was held at the Navarra Palace, where the two delegations assessed the current situation in Colombia and exchanged impressions about the circular migration between the two regions. Furthermore, as detailed by the Regional Executive, the talks included an analysis of initiatives aimed at improving the social and labor inclusion of the Colombian population residing in Navarra.
The meeting was also attended by the Consul General of Colombia in Bilbao, Edgar Rojas, the External Relations Counselor at the Colombian Embassy in Spain, Ava Gomez, and the delegate of the National Table of Civil Society for Migration, Harold Rojas. According to what was published by the Navarra government, the delegation appreciated the importance of the Colombian community in the region and stressed the role it plays in various fields, whether from a demographic perspective or in the economic and social fabric.
During the talks, the phenomenon of circular migration was discussed, which is a model that relies on the temporary and periodic movement of people between countries of origin and destination, in an effort to facilitate movement and transfer of knowledge and experiences. The Government of Navarra explained that this approach could bring benefits to the receiving region, to the migrants and their countries of origin, promoting integration and economic development.
The meeting also allowed us to review employment opportunities for Colombian citizens residing in Navarra. According to the Navarrese Executive, social and labor integration is one of the main challenges and also a priority for the regional authorities, which seek to strengthen measures and cooperation agreements in this regard. In this context, the relevant institutions highlighted the importance of measures that promote equal opportunities and ensure effective access to the labor market.
The participation of the delegate of the National Civil Society Roundtable on Migration, Harold Rojas, highlighted the role of civil entities in defending the rights of migrants and in implementing mechanisms that support their social integration. As reported by the Government of Navarra, the various parties agreed to maintain an open dialogue that allows for enhanced cooperation between public institutions and diplomatic representations, in order to provide a more effective response to the needs of the Colombian community residing in the region.
As reported by the Regional Executive, Navarra currently has a diverse immigrant population, with Colombian nationality being one of the most represented. This presence translates into the adoption of specific strategies to promote coexistence, social cohesion and access to employment opportunities for new residents and their families.
The Navarra government indicated that the institutional visit of the Colombian ambassador responds to the will of both parties to strengthen relations and enhance cooperation mechanisms, within the framework of a policy aimed at comprehensive migration management. The authorities reaffirmed their commitment to continue working to improve the living conditions of citizens of Colombian origin and launch initiatives that support their professional development and full integration into Navarrese society.