The Colombian president, Gustavo Petro, has initiated two key reforms in his government: labor and health. However, both have faced difficulties in their approval in Congress, consuming a significant part of his political capital.
The labor reform is stalled in the Senate, where the Government lacks the necessary majority. Notable aspects of this reform include the proposal for indefinite-term contracts as the general rule, the hiring of apprentices through fixed-term labor contracts, and the extension of paid leave for various cases, such as family emergencies and medical appointments. Additionally, a gradual increase in the Sunday and holiday surcharge up to 100% by 2027 is contemplated.
Regarding health reform, recently approved by the House of Representatives, it proposes the transformation of Health Promotion Entities (EPS) into health and life managers, granting additional administrative responsibilities. The Administrator of the Resources of the General System of Social Security in Health (Adres) will assume direct payments to medical service providers, eliminating the EPS's intermediation. The creation of Primary Health Care Centers (CAPS), departmental affiliation, protection of the labor rights of health workers, and temporary economic support for non-contributing women are proposed.
In summary, these reforms aim to address the deficiencies of the labor and health system in Colombia, seeking to guarantee better conditions for workers and a more efficient provision of services in the health sector.
