Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella has initiated a campaign against migrants in the country who lack proper immigration status, alongside targeting foreign nationals suspected of criminal activities. During a cabinet meeting held in Barranquilla, President de la Espriella directed police and migration authorities to execute coordinated operations starting this week. The primary focus will be on migrants linked to criminal endeavors, followed by those who have not regularized their immigration status.
In addition to these measures, President de la Espriella announced a crackdown on criminal organizations involved in drug trafficking, illegal mining, extortion, and smuggling, emphasizing that such groups will be treated as terrorists by his administration. The president’s tough stance has sparked criticism from opposition figures and human rights advocates, who argue that this approach could undermine Colombia’s previous supportive policies towards migrants, especially those fleeing from Venezuela.
Venezuelans constitute the largest group of migrants in Colombia, with many reportedly living without legal status. Critics are urging the government to prioritize regularizing the status of these migrants rather than implementing widespread deportation strategies. Concerns have been raised that the president’s policy may lead to a harsher treatment of migrants, which could exacerbate the already challenging circumstances faced by many of them.
The announcement has also triggered a discussion on the language and legal definitions used in Colombia, as the country’s law typically refers to migrants without the necessary documentation as being in an “irregular” situation rather than labeling them as “illegal.” The debate highlights the complexities and sensitivities involved in addressing immigration issues, as well as the need for careful consideration of legal and humanitarian perspectives.