Traditionally the grounds of sexual orientation have become a condition to discriminate. In Colombia, legal provisions focus in the prohibition of all forms of discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation and gender identity.
According to Article 13 of the Colombian Political Constitution, each individual is born free and equal before the law, the same protection and treatment from the authorities is guaranteed. Every individual is entitled with the same rights, freedoms and opportunities without any discrimination on grounds of gender, race, nationality or family origin, among others. On the other hand, Article 10 of the Colombian Labor Code, states that all employees are equal.
On 2011, Colombian Congress issued Law 1482, which amends the Criminal Code in order to ensure the protection of the rights of a person, group of people or members of a community that are violated by acts of racism or discrimination.
The mentioned provisions constitute the legal background that lead to conclude that Colombian legislation proscribes unequal or discriminatory practices.
Therefore, it is clear that despite the discrimination of society, the Colombian Government firmly rejects the conducts that tend to discriminate individuals due to gender, sexual orientation and gender identity. Employers should bear in mind these provisions when implementing and diffusing its recruitment, employment and human resources policies in order to act consistently with local legislation.
