Colombia

 (Pending Presidential Approval in Colombia)

Objective of the Law

This proposed law aims to ensure that all women in politics can exercise their roles in elected positions with stronger guarantees for political participation. It establishes:

• Measures to uphold women’s right to a life free from violence in political spaces

• A roadmap for filing and resolving complaints related to violence against women in politics

• Mechanisms to restore violated rights and sanction perpetrators

• Conditions that promote respect, equity, and safe political engagement for women

Comprehensive Protocol on Sexual Violence in the Workplace and Contractual Environment

Title: Comprehensive Protocol for the Prevention and Institutional Guidance on Acts of Sexual Violence in the Workplace and Contractual Environment

Source: Senate of Colombia

Adoption

• The Senate and House of Representatives of Colombia formally adopted the Protocol in 2023.

Purpose and Focus

• Prevent and respond to sexual violence within the Congressional work environment

• Empower victims and prevent revictimization

• Establish guidance for institutional action in cases of harassment or sexual violence

Target Population Covered by the Protocol

The protocol applies to individuals working in or providing services to the Congress of the Republic, including:

• Public servants

• Contractors

• Police and security personnel

• Interns, trainees, and judicial clerks

• Outsourced personnel

Definition and Scope of Sexual Violence (Page 10 Glossary)

Sexual violence is defined as:

“Any act of a sexual nature committed against a person under coercive circumstances. (…) It is not limited to the physical invasion of the human body and may include acts that do not involve penetration or even physical contact.”

Other forms of sexual violence include:

• Sexual acts

• Sexual harassment

• Groping

• Forced nudity