Colombia’s President Sets to Ease Gun Carry Rules

President Abelardo de la Espriella has signed a decree that lifts a decade‑long ban on legally‑owned firearms being carried in public.

The decree removes the extra authorisation that was required even for holders of permits to carry guns outside their homes.

De la Espriella said the change delivers on his campaign pledge to “take an iron‑fist approach to crime” while also allowing “decent people to defend themselves.”

He assured that strong controls on gun ownership would remain in place, so the law does not grant blanket rights to any handgun owner.

The original restriction was introduced by President Juan Manuel Santos in 2015 as a temporary measure for the holidays and later extended yearly by three successive administrations.

The decree, targeted at almost 700,000 licensed gun owners, lets them carry their registered firearms provided the permits are current and valid.

Critics, including Green Alliance Party Senator Ariel Ávila, argue the measure risks putting guns into the hands of criminals and undermines state monopoly over force.

De la Espriella countered that armed state forces have already seized over 15,000 illegal weapons this year, many linked to rebel factions and criminal gangs, and that law enforcement will continue to target illicit arms.

The policy remains controversial, with supporters citing personal safety and opponents warning of potential upticks in gun‑related violence.