A Senate commission in Colombia voted against a labor reform despite major protests supporting it. Key elements of the reform aimed at enhancing worker rights included compensation for night work, limiting temporary contracts, enabling sick leave for menstruation, and minimum wages for interns. Opposition argued it would increase unemployment. President Petro is calling for further protests and a referendum, though the Senate does not guarantee majority support for his proposals.
A 14-member Senate commission in Colombia has voted against a proposed labor reform despite widespread protests advocating in its favor. This decision came from eight senators who had previously announced their opposition, effectively halting the government’s proposal from reaching the plenary for further debate. The proposed reform aimed to enhance workers’ rights, aligning them with international labor standards, as outlined by the government coalition.
Key components of the labor reform included:
– Compensation for work done after 7 PM, on Sundays, and official holidays.
– Legislation limiting the use of temporary contracts for permanent positions.
– The right for women to call in sick during their menstrual periods.
– A minimum wage set for students engaged in internships.
Opponents of the reform argue that it could result in increased unemployment and hinder the availability of formal jobs. The vote coincided with protests led by President Gustavo Petro, which attracted tens of thousands of participants across various cities.
During a speech in Bogotá, President Petro urged for “permanent and growing” protests to support a referendum aimed at compelling Congress to legislate on the proposed reforms. However, this referendum must first secure approval from a Senate that currently reflects a lack of majority support for the government’s initiatives.
Tensions have escalated between President Petro and the congressional opposition regarding the labor reform, as well as proposed health and pension reforms, which were among Petro’s main campaign pledges. The president has a limited timeframe to achieve congressional backing for his progressive reforms amidst staunch resistance from liberal, conservative, and far-right factions.
The rejection of the labor reform by the Senate commission marks a significant setback for President Gustavo Petro’s administration, which is facing strong opposition from various political factions. Given the protests and his call for a referendum, Petro seeks a path to advance his proposed reforms to enhance labor rights. The political landscape remains complex, with widespread public support being countered by significant congressional resistance that poses challenges for the president’s agenda moving forward.
Original Source: colombiareports.com
