Colombia Withdraws Labor Referendum After Senate Approves Reforms

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has withdrawn a proposed referendum on labor reforms after the Senate approved a modified version of the reforms, rendering the referendum unnecessary. Petro initially issued a decree to call for a referendum, aiming to secure direct voter approval for changes including an eight-hour workday, higher pay for weekend and holiday work, and protections for gig workers. However, Colombia’s Council of State suspended the decree, ruling that Petro lacked Senate authorization to call the referendum, sparking a debate over constitutional powers between the executive, legislature, and judiciary. The Senate had previously rejected the reform bill but later passed a revised version following Petro's threat to hold the referendum. The labor reforms, seen by supporters as a historic step toward decent work, faced opposition from business groups concerned about job creation and costs, as well as political opponents who claimed the referendum was a strategic move ahead of upcoming elections. The Constitutional Court continues to review the legality of Petro’s initial referendum plan amid ongoing political tensions.