Letter from Cartagena.

Abstract

Ours is a nation renowned for its diversity and richness in various aspects, including its culture, biodiversity, landscapes and ethnic variety. We are the result of a rich cultural heritage, which stems from the fusion of indigenous, European, and African influences that are evident in phenotypes, skin colours, architectural styles, musical rhythms, dance instruments, food, beverages, religious practices, festivities, traditions... Colombia is one of the most biodiverse countries globally. It has a unique geographical location in the northwestern corner of South America, featuring both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines. After arriving from Ecuador, the Andes Mountain range divides into three branches separated by fertile valleys irrigated by the Magdalena and Cauca rivers. The geographical complexity continues with the Chocó biogeographic region in the northwestern area, the Eastern prairies and a significant portion of the Amazon Rainforest towards the south. Our country offers a stunning variety of landscapes. The resulting diverse ecosystems and varied climate zones contribute to its rich flora and fauna, including many endemic species. Last month we were recognized once again as the number one country for bird species globally. Colombia is known for its ethnic diversity. Its mainly mestizo population is the result of the blending of indigenous people with those of African and European ancestries. The ethnic mosaic of the nation has been enriched with migrations coming from the Middle East and Asia. Colombia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its population. On the dark side, Colombia has faced complex and multifaceted violence over many decades that initially affected mostly the rural areas and progressively the country as a whole. The conflict has involved various actors, including guerrilla groups, paramilitary organizations, drug cartels and state forces. The violence has resulted in numerous human rights violations, including forced displacement, disappearances, kidnapping and extrajudicial killings. Poverty, social inequality, resulting trust issues and transgenerational trauma are ubiquitous, negatively impacting the social fabric. Fortunately, efforts to negotiate peace agreements and demobilize armed groups in recent years have been commendable – they have largely been successful in decreasing levels of violence. The pain became visible, measures have been established leading to the recognition of the horrors caused and suffered, and forgiveness has been demanded – and granted – giving rise to paths of reconciliation and reparation. As for the brief history of the beginning of psychoanalysis and the constitution of the psychoanalytic societies, it can be said that the beginnings of institutional psychoanalysis in Colombia are in line with the cultural blend that characterizes the country’s history. Two psychoanalysts, one trained in Paris (Francisco Socarrás) and the other one in Santiago de Chile