They are taxing faith.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro and the Ministry of Finance are considering implementing taxes on religious denominations as part of the country’s latest tax reform efforts. The proposal, intended to boost tax revenue, has sparked significant debate. According to El Espectador, this initiative is one of many reforms the government is exploring to address Colombia’s economic challenges.
The Ministry of Finance released a statement explaining that taxing religious denominations is a measure currently under careful consideration. The idea has generated mixed reactions—some believe churches should contribute financially like other organizations, while others worry that taxation could infringe on religious freedoms.
Defending the proposal, President Petro stressed that all societal sectors should help support the country’s development. He clarified that the plan is not aimed at harming religious institutions but is a step toward ensuring fairness in taxation. “This is about equity, not persecution,” Petro said.
Religious leaders have expressed concern that the tax could limit the ability of churches to carry out their social and charitable work. One representative highlighted that many religious institutions provide essential community services, and taxation could reduce their resources for these activities.
The discussion has also reached Colombia’s Congress, where lawmakers remain divided. Some legislators support the idea, while others are strongly against it, calling for thorough analysis and consensus before any decision is made. As the government continues to evaluate the proposal, Colombian society watches closely to see how this potential reform will unfold.