Colombia's Environment Minister Fabio Arjona warns of surge in deforestation in national parks

Incoming environment minister Fabio Arjona, appointed by President‑elect Abelardo De la Espriella, said the latest transition data show a sharp rise in forest loss within Colombia’s National Natural Parks. He reported that between 2022 and 2025, 48,125 hectares were converted in the park system and that deforestation jumped from 4,682 hectares in 2023 to 11,544 hectares in 2024 – a 146.5% increase, concentrated in the Amazon region. The main drivers identified were extensive cattle ranching, illegal road construction and illegal mining, especially in parks such as Tinigua, Sierra de La Macarena, Paramillo, Puinawai, Río Puré and Chiribiquete.

Arjona announced that the new government will review the national conservation policy and strengthen state presence in protected areas. The National Parks authority cautioned that a single‑year view may be misleading, noting that overall deforestation rates remain below the 2018‑2021 levels and that previous targets were met. The minister also highlighted security concerns, citing 195 reported threats against park officials and contractors in 2025, and warned that funding commitments for the Herencia Colombia program are at risk.