GNV News, 13 November 2026
On 4 November 2026, Colombia’s President Abelardo de la Espriella signed into law the so‑called “Submission Act”, which was passsed by an overwhelming majority in Congress to coincide with the expiry of Law 418 of 1997 (the Public Order Law).
The previous law was inherited and implemented by the former administration of Gustavo Francisco Petro Urrego as part of its “Total Peace” policy, advancing a peace process centred on the suspension of arrest warrants and ceasefires for members of armed groups through peace talks and agreements. The de la Espriella administration, however, has made it clear under the new law that it will not recognise armed groups as having any “political status.”
As the very name “Subordination Law” indicates, the policy focuses not on an equal peace, but on subordination to the justice system, the dismantling of insurgent and criminal organisations, and the strengthening of state authority. The de la Espriella government argues that the previous policy allowed armed groups to forcibly recruit members and expand their influence and illegal control over drug‑trafficking and illegal mining areas. As a result, it criticizes the fact that, as of July 2026, the number of members had swollen to 29,000, almost double the figure recorded at the end of 2022.
The new law establishes a clearly defined sentence‑reduction system and preferential measures. However, these mechanisms are not applied automatically. Provided that members of insurgent groups and criminal organisations fulfil obligations toward the Colombian government – such as handing over weapons, helping to uncover collusion between their organisations and political circles, and clarifying the truth about crimes – ordinary members can receive up to a 50% reduction and commanders up to a 30% reduction in their sentences, while leaders are required to serve at least 10 years in prison. The law also clarifies incentives for cooperation in destroying drug‑processing facilities and demining, as well as support for the social reintegration and employment of those who turn themselves in.
The de la Espriella administration claims that this new law will allow the state to regain control over its territory and prevent armed groups from using peace processes to expand their power and strengthen illegal economies. Critics, including former President Petro, counter that the new legal framework will not lead to the true dismantling of insurgent and criminal organisations, but instead will only benefit money launderers, front companies, and financial operatives. They also object to what they see as a rushed legislative process in Congress.
The Petro administration, which had long promoted its “Total Peace” policy, lost power in the June 2026 elections, something some observers attribute to its failure to build trust among the public. Although President de la Espriella won a historically close race, significant challenges left by the previous government remain. From now on, the effectiveness of the de la Espriella administration’s new security measures under this law will be put to the test.
Learn more about Colombia’s new president → “Colombia’s new president formally ends ‘Total Peace’”
Learn more about reforms in Colombia → “Colombia’s rapidly advancing reforms”
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