Carlos Fernando Galán is a Colombian politician, journalist, and public servant known for his work in government transparency and anti-corruption efforts. He graduated from Georgetown University with a focus on International Economics and studied government and public affairs at the Externado de Colombia University. He also pursued postgraduate studies in International Affairs at Columbia University. Galán worked as a correspondent and editor for prominent Colombian publications such as Semana, Cambio, and El Tiempo, where his investigative journalism contributed to uncovering political scandals, including the parapolitics crisis[3][4].
In politics, Galán served as a Councilor of Bogotá, winning the largest vote in the city's history for that position. He became a notable opponent of corruption, exposing irregularities in public contracting and helping to uncover the Carousel of Contracting scandal. He was twice recognized as the best Councilor in Bogotá and was named the Most Outstanding Councilor by local journalists[3][4]. In 2011, he ran for Mayor of Bogotá, securing a significant number of votes, though not winning the office.
Galán also worked internationally at the Organization of American States (OAS) as an advisor to then-Secretary General César Gaviria between 2001 and 2003, focusing on democratic processes and election observation in Latin America[3][4]. In 2012, he was appointed Colombia’s Secretary of Anti-Corruption and Transparency by President Juan Manuel Santos, a newly created role aimed at combating corruption at the national level. In 2013, he became president of the Radical Change Party and led its Senate list for the 2014 elections[3][4].
Carlos Fernando Galán remains an influential figure in Colombian politics and governance, recognized for his dedication to transparency, democratic strengthening, and journalistic integrity. His career reflects a blend of media expertise and political activism centered on fighting corruption and promoting accountability[3][4].