Democratic Centre (Colombia)

The Democratic Centre (Spanish: Centro Democrático) is a right-wing political party in Colombia founded in 2013 by Álvaro Uribe, former President of Colombia. The party is rooted in Uribe's political ideology, often referred to as "Uribismo," which emphasizes a strong security policy, free-market economics, and opposition to left-wing groups.

The party's platform generally advocates for a tough stance against armed groups, including FARC dissidents and the ELN, often favoring military solutions over negotiation. Economically, the Democratic Centre supports policies aimed at promoting foreign investment, reducing taxes, and deregulating the economy to encourage entrepreneurship and economic growth. Socially, the party tends to be socially conservative, holding traditional views on issues such as family values and religious freedom.

Álvaro Uribe remains a highly influential figure within the Democratic Centre, although he has officially stepped down from leadership positions. The party has been a significant force in Colombian politics since its inception, holding seats in Congress and influencing presidential elections. Iván Duque, elected President of Colombia in 2018, was a prominent member of the Democratic Centre. The party has faced criticism for its perceived association with paramilitary groups and its hardline stance on the peace process with FARC. It continues to be a major player in the Colombian political landscape, representing a significant portion of the country's right-wing electorate.