Colombian farmers seek political recognition

Over 30 organizations of rural farmers in Colombia met in Bogotá to define their collective political position, asking the new government to recognize them as political actors with environmental responsibilities.

The farmers explained they have a long history of caring for land and water, contributing to food security, and building communities. They object to being labeled simply as “producers” or “rural entrepreneurs” by the government of Abelardo de la Espriella, asserting their role extends beyond economic output.

Recently, farmers learned that officials within the Agencia Nacional de Tierras (ANT), the National Land Agency, received guidance via WhatsApp to avoid using the word “campesino” (farmer) in reports and communications. The Oigt, Office of the Inspector of Land Management, suggested using “rural producers” instead, and avoiding the term “land reform”. This directive, shared informally, raised concerns among farming groups and officials.

To advance their aims, the farmers developed a ten-point plan, including the formation of a farming bloc in Congress to promote environmental legislation and secure guarantees for dialogue with the national government. They also requested that their contributions to conservation be acknowledged in Colombia’s international commitments, and that women be prioritized in decisions about land management.