Thousands marched in Colombia against President Abelardo de la Espriella's austerity plans, labour cuts and warmer ties with Israel. Former president Gustavo Petro joined the protests in Bogota.
01Summary
- 01A coalition of opposition parties, trade unions, indigenous groups and social movements protested in Colombia on Wednesday.
- 02Thousands marched in Bogota and other major cities in the first day of a nationwide campaign led by former president Gustavo Petro.
- 03Congress has until Tuesday to approve Colombia's 2027 budget, while allies of de la Espriella are pushing to cut government spending.
- 04De la Espriella opened a Colombian embassy in Jerusalem on Wednesday and has moved to restore ties with Israel.
- 05Protesters said they feared losses in labour protections and healthcare, while the government has given police expanded powers ahead of the demonstrations.
02Why it matters
The protests show mounting opposition to spending cuts and policy changes under Colombia's new president. They also highlight wider tensions over labour rights, policing and the government's stance on Israel and Palestine.
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