Under the proposal, surrendered assets would be used to compensate those affected by decades of armed conflict. Leaders who comply would also receive reduced prison sentences. The government is engaged in negotiations with several armed groups, though powerful actors like the ELN guerrilla movement remain outside the talks.

Dueñas stressed that without the bill’s legal framework, the likelihood of successful negotiations is minimal. He argued that past suppression strategies have failed, making new, incentive-driven approaches essential in the context of the world’s largest-ever cocaine boom.

An Invamer poll found that only 26% of Colombians believe the total peace initiative is progressing well, while 67% view it negatively. As Congress debates the bill, relations with Washington are under strain. President Trump has criticized Colombia’s security policies and warned that next month’s U.S. review could revoke the country’s certification as a key ally in the war on drugs—a move that would restrict aid and financing.

Dueñas said Colombia will continue cooperating with U.S. counter-narcotics efforts, emphasizing that the legislation does not alter extradition laws or international enforcement agreements. He added that rising cocaine demand in new markets, including Asia, is fueling production growth.