The recent election of Abelardo de la Espriella as Colombia's president marks a significant shift in the country's environmental policies. With a narrow victory, de la Espriella, a far-right lawyer, has pledged to prioritize fossil fuel extraction, a stark contrast to the energy transition efforts of the previous leftist administration. This shift has sparked concern among environmental activists and campaigners, who fear a setback to their hard-fought progress.
Yuvelis Morales Blanco, a prominent activist and recipient of the Goldman Environmental Prize, embodies the spirit of resistance. Her activism, rooted in her connection to the Magdalena River, has been instrumental in halting oil extraction and fracking in Puerto Wilches. However, the future looks uncertain as the new government's stance on fossil fuels remains ambiguous.
The environmental movement in Colombia faces a challenging landscape. With the highest homicide rates for land and environmental defenders in the world, activists like Morales must navigate a delicate balance between dialogue and mobilization. The new government's rhetoric on fracking and large-scale extraction has softened, but the divide remains, with right-wing regions favoring extraction over environmental concerns.
The economic argument for fossil fuels is complex. While Colombia's non-mining, non-energy exports have grown, accounting for 52.6% of total exports in 2025, critics argue that the country cannot afford to abandon oil, coal, and gas entirely. The fiscal deficit, at 6.4% in 2025, highlights the economic challenges. However, experts like Andrés Gómez suggest a strategic approach, emphasizing the need to manage the decline of extractive revenues rather than an abrupt abandonment.
The Petro government's environmental achievements, including a significant increase in renewable energy capacity, are under scrutiny. The new government's plans to roll back environmental policies and loosen regulations raise concerns about the country's commitment to the energy transition. Susana Muhamad, a political scientist, predicts a policy of containment, with environmental ministers acting as 'notaries of disaster' and granting permits for extraction.
The alliance with the United States and the influence of Donald Trump add another layer of complexity. Muhamad warns of a more aggressive fossil fuel push, particularly in vulnerable areas like the Cordillera Occidental, where mineral extraction could exacerbate existing violence and risk to rural communities. The election's lack of debate between governing platforms further complicates the situation, leaving voters with limited information to make informed choices.
Despite the challenges, Morales remains optimistic. She emphasizes the importance of international support in safeguarding Colombia's fossil fuel treaties and ensuring a genuine energy transition. The country's role as a laboratory for the energy transition is at a crossroads, and the coming years will shape Colombia's environmental future, with the potential for both setbacks and progress.
