ALER Satelital

The station functions as a key component of a continental network comprising community and popular radio stations, radio coordinators, and production centers. Established as a non-governmental, non-profit organization on September 23, 1972, its genesis is linked to pioneering educational radio efforts in the region. A notable precursor was Radio Sutatenza, which commenced operations in Colombia in 1947, demonstrating the potential of radio for literacy education among rural communities. The network's formation in 1972 brought together 18 radio stations affiliated with Catholic churches. Their initial goals were to enhance the planning and evaluation of educational programs, provide training for station staff, and secure international funding. Over the years, the network's guiding philosophy broadened from a strictly Catholic-Christian foundation to embrace Christian and/or humanist inspirations. This evolution allowed for the inclusion of community radio stations from various Latin American countries whose objectives aligned with the network's educational and social mission. Towards the end of the 1990s, the organization initiated an ambitious intercontinental intercommunication program. Initially named ALRED (América Latina en Red), it is now known as the Intercontinental Radio Communication System (SICR). This system leverages satellite and internet technologies to serve as a platform for educational, popular, community, and participatory radio stations across the continent, aiming to foster political influence within the region. The continental information network's operations are decentralized, managed through various production nodes. Editorial coordination is provided by organizations such as ARPAS, IRFA, Radio Seibo, and a collaborative network of radio stations and production centers located in Central America.