Colombia to propose law classifying armed groups as terrorists

Colombia's government is set to introduce a legal reform to Congress that would classify guerrilla groups, drug cartels, and other illegal organizations as terrorists. This move signals a significant shift in public order doctrine under President Abelardo de la Espriella, who took office on August 7. The new approach aims to reverse the previous administration's pacification policies and strengthen military operations, in collaboration with the United States.

Interior Minister Rodrigo Lara confirmed the development of an "antiterrorist statute." This legal framework will rigorously define "terrorist organization" and establish an official process for listing groups that fit this designation. Lara indicated that the scope of this regulation could extend to those responsible for recent forest fires and robberies in the country's western regions. He stated, "I am working on this to provide law enforcement with tools to combat individuals of this nature who arrive and burn entire towns, farms, and endanger people's lives."

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I am working on this to provide law enforcement with tools to combat individuals of this nature who arrive and burn entire towns, farms, and endanger people's lives.

The government's strategy mirrors the U.S. administration's designations of cartels and criminal gangs in Latin America, which facilitates intelligence cooperation, police operations, and counterinsurgency efforts in the region. This formalizes a break from the negotiation and disarmament agreements pursued by former President Gustavo Petro. President De la Espriella emphasized the government's unified stance, stating in a press release, "They are all terrorists and we will treat them as such."

The decision comes amid an increase in violent actions in various parts of the country. During the response to national emergencies caused by fires and an earthquake on August 10, authorities detected individuals operating under the guise of volunteers to distract and deplete the resources of law enforcement and state agencies. The government's firm stance aims to consolidate institutional treatment for all actors operating outside the law.

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They are all terrorists and we will treat them as such.