Colombia's National Council on Narcotics repeals glyphosate suspension

The National Council on Narcotics (CNE) has repealed Resolution 6 of 2015, which had suspended the aerial spraying of glyphosate for the eradication of illicit crops in Colombia. While this decision removes the previous suspension, officials have clarified that it does not constitute an automatic resumption of aerial fumigation programs using manned aircraft.

To restart such operations, the government must satisfy several legal and environmental requirements established by the Constitutional Court. These include obtaining a valid general environmental management plan from the National Environmental Licensing Authority (Anla), securing favorable assessments from the National Institute of Health (INS) regarding sanitary and environmental risks, and conducting prior consultations with affected ethnic communities.

Additionally, any use of alternative substances would require the creation of new environmental management instruments, including comprehensive impact studies and community participation processes.