A decade ago, Colombia was in turmoil, and today no doubt many Americans still see it as the lawless, wild west-style country portrayed in the Harrison Ford thriller, Clear and Present Danger. These common perceptions make it easy for anti-trade activists to argue against the U.S.-Colombia FTA - signed three years ago, but still not approved by the U.S. Congress - on the basis that the Colombian government has not done enough to stem violence, particularly politically-motivated violence against union members. The facts dispel this damaging myth.

Writing for the Canadian Foundation for the Americas, Daniel Mejia, professor of economics of the Universidad de los Andes, illustrates the facts: "In 2002, the Colombian homicide rate per 100,000 people was approximately 70, and the homicide rate of union members per 100,000 union members was roughly 22. By 2008, these figures had fallen to 36 and 6 respectively."

The following table places homicides in Colombia, including those of labor union members, in an international context:

Colombia's progress in this area is no accident. The government has taken extraordinary measures to protect civic leaders, including numerous union leaders, from political intimidation or violence. In 1997, Colombia established a security protection program that provides individual security to vulnerable union members. This unique program for trade unionists and other at-risk populations underscores the Colombian government's commitment to protecting the basic rights of labor union members and has been recognized by the International Labor Organization and the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. Over 1,700 union members are voluntarily protected under this extremely successful program.

Overall, Colombia has been a willing and engaged partner in good faith efforts to improve domestic labor conditions, standards and laws in the context of the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement. The time has come to recognize that further progress in Colombia is in part dependent on economic growth. The United States has provided billions in assistance to Colombia over the last decade. The free trade agreement would cost us nothing.  Three years is too long to wait. It's time for the White House and Congress to move on the Colombia FTA.