Colombia: Court orders water access and validates WhatsApp evidence

In Colombia, the Administrative Tribunal of Bolívar has ordered the completion of the Environmental Management Plan for the Los Colorados Fauna and Flora Sanctuary. This decision follows a ruling to protect the fundamental rights of the Palmira and Nueva Floresta communities in San Juan Nepomuceno, who have faced issues regarding housing and public services.

The Tribunal mandated that the municipality of San Juan Nepomuceno provide immediate, temporary water supplies via water trucks, ensuring a minimum of 50 liters per person daily. Additionally, the court ruled that tariff schemes must not prevent low-income families from accessing essential water services.

Separately, the Colombian Supreme Court of Justice clarified that printed WhatsApp screenshots are admissible as documentary evidence in labor law proceedings. The court noted that while these prints prove a message was sent, they do not inherently prove receipt or acceptance by an employer unless contested by the opposing party.