The end of the lockdown in Colombia has been extended from April 26 2020 to May 10 2020. However, from April 27, some exceptions will be added for the construction sector and the manufacturing industry. Decree No. 531 extending the lockdown can be viewed online in Spanish. Essential activities and business operations continue to be allowed during the extended lockdown period. All non-essential activities and businesses cannot operate unless this is done remotely.The lockdown in Columbia has been extended again, this time until May 25, 2020, by means of Decree No. 636. The Decree continues the prohibition of non-essential activities and businesses from operating, non-essential businesses and activities must be ceased immediately, and carried out remotely if possible, until May 25.On March 27, the Ministry of Health issued recommendations for the development and work and care of public health in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.Additionally, the Minister of Labor publicized Circular 021 on March 17, which recommends various employment protection measures that can be taken during the period of the containment of COVID-19 and the declaration of a health emergency in Colombia. Some of the reccomendations that have been provided include providing alternative arrangements to employees during the COVID-19 outbreak, such as work at home, telecommuting, and flexible working hours. Additionally, annual, early, and collective vacations can be considered, as well as paid leave. Employers have many options available to them which they are able to consider for their employees during this period of time (See Here).
Employers should continue to check with relevant authorities for the latest information:
-Ministry of Health and Social Protection (https://www.minsalud.gov.co/Paginas/default.aspx)
-Government of Colombia Coronavirus Website (https://coronaviruscolombia.gov.co/Covid19/index.html)
-Ministry of Labor (http://www.mintrabajo.gov.co/web/guest/inicio)