Domestic Violence in Colombia: How to Report It and What Protection Exists
## What is domestic violence?
Domestic violence is any action or omission that causes physical, psychological, sexual, or financial harm to a member of the family unit.
In Colombia it's mainly governed by: - Law 294 of 1996 (protection measures) - Law 1257 of 2008 (rights of women who are victims of violence) - Criminal Code, article 229 (the crime of domestic violence)
Domestic violence doesn't require physical assault — psychological abuse, financial control, and social isolation are also forms of violence.
Where to report it
Family Commissioner's Office (Comisaría de Familia) This is the first place to go. It can issue protection measures the same day. You don't need a lawyer or elaborate evidence — your statement is enough to start the process.
Attorney General's Office / URI To file a criminal complaint. Domestic violence is a crime investigated automatically — you don't need the abuser to be present.
National Police (CAI) For immediate emergencies. They can accompany you home to collect belongings and can refer you to the Family Commissioner's Office.
Line 155 — Women's Line Guidance and activation of the support pathway, available 24/7.
Protection measures
The Family Commissioner's Office can order immediate protection measures:
- Ordering the abuser to leave the shared home
- A restraining order (minimum distance)
- A no-contact order (including social media)
- Temporary custody of minors
- Repair of the harm caused
These measures can be granted within a few hours, and failing to comply with them is itself a crime.
The crime of domestic violence
Article 229 of the Criminal Code sets penalties of 4 to 8 years in prison for anyone who physically or psychologically mistreats a member of their family.
If there are aggravating circumstances (use of weapons, a minor or a person with a disability as the victim, repeat offenses), penalties increase up to 16 years.
What to do in an emergency
- Leave the location if it's safe to do so
- Call 123 (Police)
- Go to the nearest emergency room if there are physical injuries — the doctor must issue an injury report
- Keep evidence: photos of injuries, messages, audio recordings
Documenting psychological violence
Psychological violence is harder to prove, but it's still a crime. Keep: - Screenshots of text messages, WhatsApp, or social media with threats or insults - Audio recordings if you have them (in Colombia, recording a conversation you're a part of is legal) - Testimony from family members, neighbors, or friends who witnessed incidents
If there are minor children
Children who witness or are victims of domestic violence have special protection. The ICBF (Colombian Family Welfare Institute) can step in to ensure their well-being. Don't be afraid that reporting will cost you custody — on the contrary, documenting the violence strengthens your position in a custody proceeding.
If you're a victim of domestic violence, or you're supporting someone who is, safety comes first. Once you're somewhere safe, we can guide you through the legal steps and the protection measures available.
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