Colombia Economic Emergency Declared After Deadly Earthquake

Colombia has declared an economic, social and ecological emergency following a deadly earthquake on August 10. President Abelardo De la Espriella signed Decree 1261 of 2026 on August 19, invoking Article 215 of the constitution. This decree covers 15 departments and 471 municipalities across the country, with over 262,154 people affected by the quake and its aftershocks.

The measure remains in effect for 30 days, with a total of 90 days allowed within a single calendar year. While the decree does not specify spending, separate measures will follow to address housing, health, education, transport, and infrastructure. The Constitution's emergency clause allows the president to issue decrees with the force of law, covering budget reallocation, creation of funds, direct contracting, tax changes, and temporary taxes.

However, such temporary taxes will expire at the end of the next fiscal year unless Congress extends them. The government plans to redirect national royalties system resources toward reconstruction and provide rental subsidies, housing-subsidy rules, and financial relief for households and firms. Colombia has used Article 215 only 12 times in the past 30 years, but more recent declarations suggest the number may be higher.

The decree will be reviewed by the Constitutional Court and Congress, which can modify or repeal emergency measures during the following year.