Colombia's new labor decree and 42‑hour workweek overhaul

The Colombian government is implementing two major labor reforms. Decree 234/26 expands collective bargaining to higher organizational levels—such as industry sectors, regions or groups of companies—and allows negotiated agreements to bind employers and workers who did not take part in the talks. Critics argue the decree lacks clear criteria for union representation and risks extending obligations to parties without proper consent, raising legal and constitutional concerns.

Separately, Law 2101 will reduce the legal maximum workweek from 44 to 42 hours on 15 July 2026. The change places Colombia among the shorter workweeks in Latin America, though still above many European standards. Both measures aim to modernise labor relations but generate debate over their impact on workers' rights, employer obligations, and overall economic productivity.