Colombia seeks to expand definition of terrorism in draft “counterterrorism statute”
The government of President Abelardo de la Espriella will present Colombia’s Congress with a comprehensive “counterterrorism statute,” which would give authorities enhanced powers to fight designated terrorist organizations. A 116-page draft bill, which was leaked to Caracol Radio, would facilitate a military approach to combat illegal armed groups and organized crime groups, for example through…
Colombia's government plans to introduce a "counterterrorism statute" to Congress, aiming to expand the definition of terrorism and grant authorities greater powers to combat designated terrorist groups. The 116-page draft bill, leaked to Caracol Radio, proposes a national registry of terrorist organizations and actors, enabling asset freezes and expanded surveillance.
It also introduces a presidential counterterrorism commissioner position and a special prison regime for terrorist leaders. The proposed legislation redefines terrorism as any conduct causing fear, panic, or terror through violence, allowing individuals to challenge wrongful inclusion on the terror list. The bill further modifies penalties for crimes linked to terrorism and introduces new offenses, including drone use, illegal mining, and human trafficking.
Additionally, it grants the president the authority to establish the Office of the High Counterterrorism Commissioner, empowering him with six months to define its role and appoint its first commissioner.
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