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Medellín’s Parceros Program Wins Best Crime Prevention Project Award

Medellín, a city famous for its incredible transformation and lively culture, just hit a major milestone in keeping its streets safe. The city’s innovative Parceros program recently grabbed the spotlight at the XVII International Mission of Safe Cities (MIC), winning the prestigious Best Project in Crime Prevention award. This award isn’t just a trophy; it highlights how Parceros is making a real difference by protecting vulnerable youth from falling into crime through its neighborhood-focused approach. Medellín keeps proving it’s not just a vibrant destination, but also one that cares deeply about its community’s well-being.

What Is the Parceros Program?

The Parceros program is all about giving young people in Medellín’s most vulnerable neighborhoods real opportunities to steer clear of crime. Using an innovative territorial intervention model, it offers at-risk youth a mix of psychosocial support, vocational training, education, and job access, helping them build skills and a sense of belonging that keeps them away from illegal activities.

What really sets Parceros apart, and earned it the Best Project in Crime Prevention award at the XVII International Mission of Safe Cities (MIC), is its proven impact . The MIC is an immersive program that brings together local governments, social organizations, universities, and citizen security programs from Latin America and Europe. It serves as a crucial platform for authorities to learn from international experiences in urban safety and governance. Historically, such international recognition highlights successful models that can inspire and be adapted by cities worldwide, promoting effective strategies for crime reduction and social inclusion.

The Parceros program’s deep connection with the communities it serves, combined with its consistent presence and genuine care for young people, tackles the root causes of crime head-on. By fostering social inclusion and hope, Parceros not only transforms individual lives, but also strengthens the safety and spirit of Medellín as a whole. The program has seen thousands of young people find opportunities in education, work, and entrepreneurship, significantly impacting their lives and the city.

What Does This Award Mean for Expats in Colombia?

The success of programs like Parceros has a big impact on how safe Colombia feels to expats and digital nomads. When local initiatives effectively support vulnerable communities and reduce crime risks, the whole city, and even the country, becomes safer. Community-driven efforts like Parceros create a ripple effect, strengthening neighborhoods by offering positive alternatives to at-risk youth.

This builds more confident, vibrant communities that benefit everyone, including foreign residents, by fostering a welcoming and secure environment. International recognition of these programs shows that Medellín isn’t just focused on internal social progress; it’s committed to making the city safer and more inviting for all who live in or visit it. For expats and digital nomads looking to settle or explore here, this award is a reassuring sign that Medellín continues to improve its safety, making it an excellent place to live, work, and enjoy life.

Are There Other Important Medellín Safety Tips for Foreigners to Consider?

While programs like Parceros are changing the game, it’s still smart for foreigners to stay alert and follow some basic safety tips to enjoy a smooth stay in Medellín. For starters, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded spots to avoid pickpocketing. Be aware of common scams, like overcharging or distraction tricks—and trust your gut if something feels off.

While programs like Parceros are changing the game, it’s still smart for foreigners to stay alert and follow some basic safety tips to enjoy a smooth stay in Medellín:

Keep your belongings close:

Pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas, so stay aware and avoid flashing valuables.
2. Beware of common scams:

Watch out for overcharging or distraction tricks, and always trust your instincts.
3. Follow the local motto “no dar papaya”:

Don’t give easy chances to thieves—avoid using your phone openly on the street, don’t wear flashy jewelry, and keep a low profile.
4. Be cautious with transportation:

Use official taxis or trusted ride-sharing apps like Uber or Didi, especially at night. Avoid informal or street-hail transport.
5. Stay in well-populated, patrolled areas:

Stick to neighborhoods like El Poblado, Laureles, Envigado, and Sabaneta, and avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar places.
6. Don’t resist if robbed:

Your safety is more important than belongings—comply calmly.
7.Avoid accepting drinks or drugs from strangers:

Protect yourself from potential scams or worse.
8. Carry only what you need:

Leave your passport in a safe place and take copies instead when going out.

Looking for more detailed advice on staying safe in Medellín? We’ve got you covered! Dive into our comprehensive Medellin Guru safety guides, where you’ll find practical tips, local insights, and updates tailored for expats, digital nomads, and visitors. Whether you want a step-by-step rundown on avoiding common scams, guidance on safe neighborhoods, or essential advice for nightlife and transportation, our security and safety series is your go-to resource. Explore the guides to travel with confidence and make the most of your Medellín experience, knowing you’re equipped with insider knowledge to stay secure and enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Medellin Guru's safety and security series

Safety is the biggest concern of foreigners visiting Colombia or planning to move to Colombia. So, we have a series of 18 popular articles about safety and security in Colombia:

The Bottom Line: Medellín's Parceros Program Wins Best Crime Prevention Project Award

Medellín’s international win for the Parceros program is a huge shoutout to the city’s ongoing commitment to building a safer, more welcoming future. Of course, whether you’re living here or just visiting, it’s always smart to stay informed about how to avoid common scams and stay safe around town. But programs like Parceros go beyond that. They’re changing the game by investing in young people and strengthening communities from the ground up. Medellín isn’t just a vibrant, exciting place, it’s one that truly cares about the safety and well-being of everyone who calls it home.