Colombian President Calls for National Referendum on Health and Labor Reforms

Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced plans for a national referendum on his health and labor reforms, which face legislative opposition. These reforms aim to enhance healthcare access and labor conditions but struggle for support in Congress. Petro emphasizes voter decision as crucial to advancing his proposals.

In a bold move responding to legislative challenges, Colombian President Gustavo Petro declared he would initiate a national referendum. This decision seeks to let voters voice their opinions on contentious health and labor reforms currently stalled in Congress.

While Petro underscores the necessity of these reforms to tackle inequity and poverty, the proposals have stumbled due to insufficient legislative backing. The president has not confirmed whether he will retract these proposals from Congress but is adamant about public participation in the decision-making process.

Petro's health reform proposes diminished control from insurers and broader healthcare access. Meanwhile, the labor reform targets reducing work hours while increasing overtime pay. The decision to consider a public referendum came after a significant Senate committee move against the labor reform bill, indicating a need for broader public support.

(With inputs from agencies.)