Pacto Histórico introduces seventh antifracking bill in Colombia

Pacto Histórico has presented its seventh bill to ban fracking in Colombia, marking the latest attempt to prohibit the controversial extraction technique. The bill was filed on July 20, 2026, during the installation of Congress, by Senator Esmeralda Hernández and former Environment Minister Irene Vélez, among others Source: La Silla Vacía.

What happened

The proposed law aims to prohibit hydraulic fracturing in unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs, citing environmental and health risks. Former Mines and Energy Minister Edwin Palma said, "During years they tried to sell fracking as the solution for the country; even governments that promoted that bet failed" Source: La Silla Vacía. Hernández noted that previous attempts were blocked by legislative inaction, stating, "Four years ago we tried, but it was sunk because they didn't schedule it to protect multinationals and their businesses" Source: La Silla Vacía.

The reaction

The bill comes amid a political shift: incoming President Abelardo de la Espriella has expressed openness to fracking, and his designated Environment Minister Fabio Arjona said the ministry would not oppose the technique if it avoids irreversible damage Source: La Silla Vacía. Hernández warned, "We will not allow Colombia to go backward in rights, social conquests, and see our greatest heritage—biodiversity—devastated" Source: Infobae.

What's next

This is the seventh attempt to pass an antifracking law in Colombia, and the third by the Pacto Histórico. Previous versions failed to advance through the House of Representatives due to lack of debate Source: Infobae. The current legislative landscape, with the Pacto Histórico now in opposition, poses new challenges.