Colombia: New Ministry of Labor Inspection Provisions

In brief

The Ministry of Labor issued Resolution 4179 of 2025 (“Resolution”), which established “a labor inspection with purpose,” incorporating differential, intersectional and gender-based criteria. The Resolution has been effective since 7 November 2025.

Key updates

1. A labor inspection is a priority tool against non-compliance with labor regulations, workplace violence, and anti-union practices.
2. A differential, intersectional, and gender-based approach is incorporated into all inspection actions, prioritizing the protection of vulnerable groups and the eradication of discrimination based on gender, age, disability, ethnic origin, and nationality, among other things.
3. Five strategic pillars have been established for the inspections. They are as follows:
   1. Territorial approach.
   2. Broad remit: “Focus on Labor Reform” to verify compliance with Law 2466 of 2025.
   3. Rural focus with special attention to rural and farming areas.
   4. To ensure the guarantees of trade union freedom.
   5. Specialized inspections in sectors such as ports, private security and surveillance, mining and energy, domestic work, and the public sector.

Key aspects of the Inspection with purpose

1. The Ministry of Labor will conduct the inspections without prior notice, respecting legal limits and guarantees.
2. Priority is given to protecting labor rights in sectors with high levels of conflict and frequent regulatory noncompliance.

Preventive measures during inspection

If serious risks to workers’ life, health or safety are identified, the Ministry of Labor may order the audited employer to immediately adopt one or more of the following measures:

1. Suspend hazardous activities.
2. Temporarily reassign personnel.
3. Deliver personal protective equipment.
4. Correct physical conditions in the workplace.
5. Guarantee access to occupational health services and psychological care.
6. Implement occupational safety and health protocols.
7. Cease voluntary mass severance agreements and actions that threaten the existence of trade unions.

What should companies do?

1. Suspend hazardous activities.
2. Temporarily reassign personnel.
3. Deliver personal protective equipment.
4. Correct physical conditions in the workplace.
5. Guarantee access to occupational health services and psychological care.
6. Implement occupational safety and health protocols.
7. Cease voluntary mass severance agreements and actions that threaten the existence of trade unions.

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