Colombian Public Policy Models to Benefit Families

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to discuss public policies that represent a significant and successful experience in Colombia and the department of Antioquia. It first presents a sketch of the leading agency of the National Family Welfare System in Colombia, the Colombian Family Welfare Institute (ICBF) and Law 1098, 2006, and of the Children’s and Adolescents Code. It then presents various model national and local policies (for early childhood and food security) and emphasizes the role of the formal networks. It does not conduct a critical or in-depth analysis, but establishes priorities and selects the government programs that with different emphases – either to provide subsidies or promote complete care, focus either on covering and serving the Family as their central focus or individual family members. It describes and highlights factors in which social science professionals have an important though implicit role, but does not highlight their interventions. Experience, teaching, consulting, research and professional exercise related to the issue guide this compendium.