Colombia’s rebels no longer considered political actors under landmark new law
The law marks a major shift in the Colombian state’s counter-insurgency policy. The post Colombia’s rebels no longer considered political actors under landmark new law appeared first on The Bogotá Post .
Colombia has enacted a groundbreaking law that redefines the status of rebel groups, no longer recognizing them as political actors. This major shift in policy, championed by President Abelardo de la Espriella, marks a significant departure from the country's previous counter-insurgency strategy. The "Submission Act" introduces incentives for individuals belonging to criminal organizations to surrender and cooperate with authorities, offering reduced sentences up to 50% for minor members and 30% for commanders.
However, this legislation eliminates the possibility of negotiated peace agreements with armed groups, treating them akin to regular criminal entities. The new law supersedes the 1997 Public Order Law, which had previously permitted dialogue and peace deals with groups operating outside the law, a provision crucial to the 2016 peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia.
President de la Espriella celebrated the passage of the bill, stating that the pursuit of "total peace" has come to an end, reflecting his administration's commitment to a hardline approach against illegal organizations.
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