Law 731 of 2002 on Measures to Support Rural Women

Colombia's Law 731 of 2002, enacted on January 14, 2002, establishes measures to support rural women, improve their quality of life, and accelerate gender equality in rural areas. The law recognizes rural women regardless of the nature of their activities, whether those activities are remunerated, or whether they are directly related to agricultural production. It provides measures to improve access to rural financing instruments, promote women's participation in funds and programs supporting productive development, strengthen their organization and representation, and facilitate access to land and other rural development resources. It also addresses rural women's participation in decision-making bodies, recognition of their economic and social contributions, and the reduction of barriers limiting the exercise of their rights. For agrifood systems, the law is relevant because it provides a legal basis for women's economic and productive inclusion, strengthens their participation in agricultural and rural activities, and improves institutional conditions for accessing productive resources. It is a cross-cutting national law rather than a stand-alone credit, subsidy, or cash transfer program. Its provisions should be interpreted in conjunction with subsequent applicable amendments and implementing regulations.