Great Referendum for the Regions takes shape for 2027: ex-constituents join offensive against centralism

A significant push for regional autonomy in Colombia is gaining momentum with the proposed "Great Referendum for the Regions," slated for October 2027. This initiative seeks to bring the debate on decentralization and greater regional power to a national vote, aligning with territorial elections.

The proposal has garnered crucial support from former members of the 1991 National Constituent Assembly, who have publicly committed to promoting a national consultation. The core question aims to gauge public support for a model where regions possess enhanced autonomy and the capacity to make decisions regarding their own development, including investments in infrastructure, education, health, and economic growth.

The initiative revives a long-standing discussion about the effective implementation of articles 306 and 307 of the Colombian Constitution, which address regional organization and the potential for establishing regional entities. Governor Eduardo Verano of Atlántico, himself a former constituent, emphasized the need to move beyond the foundational framework of the 1991 Constitution, stating, "This Magna Carta gave us the map, but we have had to clear the path with a machete."

Verano envisions the referendum as a mechanism for Colombians to decide whether they wish to transition to a country composed of autonomous regions. These regions would be empowered to formulate public policies tailored to their unique economic, social, cultural, and geographical characteristics, thereby fostering development closer to the territories and away from the predominant influence of the central government.

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This Magna Carta gave us the map, but we have had to clear the path with a machete.