Colombia’s Council of State suspends referendum on Petro’s labor reform proposal.
Colombia’s Council of State has taken significant legal action by suspending a decree put forth by President Gustavo Petro, aimed at initiating a referendum regarding controversial labour reform. This suspension stems from the absence of Senate authorization, highlighting the intricate balance of power within the Colombian political landscape.
Last week, President Petro, who was elected in 2022 with a mandate to address long-standing inequalities, moved to bypass legislative opposition, directly calling for voters to weigh in on the proposed reforms in an August referendum. The initiative includes critical measures such as instituting an eight-hour workday, increasing pay for weekend and holiday shifts, and mandating social security contributions from delivery app drivers. These reforms are a reflection of Petro’s commitment to progressive social policies that prioritize the welfare of workers.
However, the decree faced sharp criticism from opposition lawmakers, who contended that it undermines the Political Constitution of Colombia by infringing upon the separation of powers among the government’s branches. According to Colombian law, any referendum must receive Senate approval prior to being presented to the public. For the proposed measures to pass, they would require endorsement from at least 13.5 million voters, representing a substantial portion of Colombia’s electoral base.
Critics further suggested that the referendum was a strategic maneuver to bolster Petro’s political party ahead of the 2026 elections, in which he is ineligible to run. Nonetheless, despite the hurdles in calling a referendum, the Senate recently approved a revised labour reform bill by a vote of 57 to 31, following extensive debates that reflect the legislative body’s ongoing engagement with labour issues.
The presidency has heralded this legislated reform as “a historic step toward decent work,” indicative of Petro’s administration’s commitment to worker rights. Recent protests in the capital city of Bogota and other urban centers showcased strong public support for the proposed reforms, signaling a significant grassroots movement advocating for change.
Amid these political developments, Colombia continues to navigate complex security challenges, including recent violent incidents that have reignited fears regarding the nation’s safety and stability. These issues underline the urgency of addressing socio-economic disparities and reinforcing the country’s democratic institutions.
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