Colombia’s protest battle puts Espriella’s new rules to the test
Colombia is preparing for demonstrations on 14 October, with former president Gustavo Petro set to join protesters opposing President Abelardo de la Espriella’s approach to social mobilisation and his government’s new rules for managing demonstrations.
Workers’ organisations and opposition groups have called on people to take to the streets, demanding a living minimum wage and better conditions for the population. Supporters of the mobilisation say millions of Colombians should join the protests, including in Bogotá.
De la Espriella defended the decree, saying it protects peaceful protest while allowing authorities to act against violence and destruction. The demonstrations will test how his government balances the constitutional right to protest with its commitment to respond to violent acts.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
