Hacia la universalización del sistema de riesgos laborales para la protección de los trabajadores rurales en Colombia

Millions of rural workers face high-risk working conditions, especially in sectors such as agriculture, livestock and forestry. Many of these jobs are carried out informally, which limits their access to social protection and occupational risk systems, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and vulnerability. This article analyzes the universalization of the occupational risk system for rural workers in Colombia, identifying the structural barriers that limit their inclusion. The research, with a qualitative and hermeneutical approach, reviews regulations and statistics that show the difficulties of rural workers in accessing a system that should protect their health and safety. It is concluded that precarious working conditions, the lack of formalization of employment and the absence of inclusive policies perpetuate a historical inequality between rural and urban workers. The need to formalize rural employment, invest in health infrastructure and develop training programs in occupational risk prevention is proposed. It is also essential to update regulations to include the particularities of agricultural work, ensuring that rural workers have adequate protection. Affirmative and sustainable policies that prioritize the most vulnerable sectors, such as women and youth, are essential to reduce occupational risks and improve the well-being of rural communities. Intersectoral collaboration is key to implementing these measures and guaranteeing a safe and dignified work environment, thus promoting development and equity for millions of marginalized workers in rural areas.