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Colombia’s Minister of the Interior, Armando Benedetti, has indicated that the government will oppose a controversial bill to increase surveillance of Christian communities.
Bill 057-2025 was introduced by Senator Alberto Benavides of the ruling Pacto Histórico party, on 29th July. It seeks to create an informing system, by which three new government bodies are authorised to collect data on churches.
The bodies would include National Information System, a National Council for the Religious Sector, and a Technical Advisory Commission, gathering data on religious doctrine, church finances, social impact and organisational structure.
Senator Benavides has claimed that the bill originated directly from discussions with Jewish, Muslim, Roman Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant groups.
However, on 4th August, Minister Benedetti met with over 30 interfaith leaders who were highly concerned about the bill.
Benedetti has since stated: “Faith is not a state concession; it is a fundamental right. It is not the state’s role to overregulate or impose limits on it.
“No one will have to pay more taxes or face additional requirements for practicing their faith. No one will be charged for praying, nor will there be technical obstacles for those who wish to bless, gather, or offer comfort.”
Senator Benavides has not withdrawn the bill, but stated he would first consult with the religious leaders who proposed the initiative and later with the government to reach a consensus.
Benedetti’s remarks have been welcomed by anti-persecution organisation Christian Solidarity Worldwide.
CSW’s founder, Mervyn Thomas said: “We call on Senator Alberto Benavides to withdraw the bill, and urge the government of Colombia to focus instead on increasing its efforts to protect vulnerable religious communities from illegal armed and criminal groups that continue to operate with impunity in the country.
“We also call on the government to reinstate religious leaders under Decree 1066, as a matter of urgency, to ensure their access to government protection programs and security mechanisms.”
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