In a significant policy shift, Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has directed law enforcement and migration authorities to initiate operations against migrants lacking regular immigration status and foreigners suspected of criminal activities. During a cabinet meeting in Barranquilla, he outlined plans to prioritize actions against migrants who are involved in criminal activities, followed by those who have not formalized their immigration status.
The president further declared a crackdown on criminal organizations engaged in drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion, and smuggling, labeling these groups as terrorists. This approach underscores a tough stance on crime within the country, aiming to bolster national security.
The new immigration measures have sparked criticism from opposition figures and human rights advocates. Critics argue that this policy could reverse Colombia’s previous initiatives that supported migrants, especially those fleeing from neighboring Venezuela. Many Venezuelans, who represent the majority of migrants in Colombia, are believed to be living without official status.
Opponents of the president’s directive emphasize the need for the government to focus on regularizing these migrants rather than pursuing mass deportations. They contend that such measures could undermine humanitarian efforts and exacerbate the challenges faced by migrants.
The president’s statements have also ignited a debate over the terminology used to describe migrants in Colombia. While the current legal framework refers to migrants without proper documentation as being in an “irregular” status, the discourse surrounding the issue has raised concerns about potential legal repercussions and the broader implications of labeling them as “illegal.”