Colombia launches implementation of the Escazu environmental agreement

The Colombian government announced the start of implementing the Escazu Agreement, a regional treaty that strengthens environmental democracy by guaranteeing access to information, public participation and justice in environmental matters. A presidential decree created the Intersectoral Commission for the Implementation of the Escazu Agreement (CiEscazú) to coordinate and monitor the process. The Ministry of Environment also released an 18‑point roadmap assigning responsibilities, timelines and indicators for each action. Minister Irene Vélez highlighted that the commission will include a consultative council with representatives from thirteen social sectors and technical committees to ensure continuous dialogue between the state and citizens. The initiative aims to improve environmental governance, protect the rights of indigenous, Afro‑Colombian and rural communities, and enhance safeguards for environmental defenders.