Colombia Congress to debate replacement for Paz Total policy

The Colombian Congress is set to begin debating a legislative project aimed at replacing the ‘Paz Total’ policy previously promoted by former President Gustavo Petro. The new proposal, introduced by the government of Abelardo De la Espriella, seeks to establish a model of judicial submission for criminal organizations rather than the existing framework.

Senator Hernán Cadavid, acting as the coordinating rapporteur, stated that the initiative intends to set legal rules for those choosing to submit to justice while questioning the extent of benefits previously granted to criminals. The proposal follows data from the Ministry of Defense and the Fundación Ideas para la Paz (FIP), which indicates a significant increase in armed group members, rising from approximately 15,120 in December 2022 to nearly 28,802 by July 2026.

Key groups identified in the report include the Clan del Golfo, the ELN, the Estado Mayor Central led by alias Iván Mordisco, and the Coordinadora Nacional Ejército Bolivariano. Justice Minister Iván Cancino has held meetings with lawmakers to advance the initiative.