Colombia is taking steps to ban the sale of merchandise featuring Pablo Escobar, as a new bill in Congress seeks to put an end to the glorification of the infamous drug lord. The proposed law aims to prohibit the sale, display, and promotion of Escobar-related items, which have become popular souvenirs for tourists despite his violent legacy.

The Push to End Escobar’s Commercialization

For decades, Escobar has been romanticized in popular culture, with his image appearing in TV shows like Narcos and being plastered on T-shirts, mugs, and keychains in Colombian tourist markets. However, lawmakers argue that his criminal past—linked to at least 4,000 murders, bombings, and kidnappings—should not be celebrated.

Congressman Juan Sebastián Gómez, a co-author of the bill, insists that Colombia should not be defined by its most notorious drug lord. “Difficult issues that are part of our history cannot simply be remembered through a T-shirt or a sticker sold on a street corner,” he stated.

If passed, the law would impose fines and temporarily shut down businesses that violate the ban. Vendors would be given a transition period to phase out their Escobar merchandise.

Merchants Fear Economic Impact

The proposed ban has sparked opposition from local vendors, particularly in Medellín’s Comuna 13, a once-dangerous area now thriving with tourism. Many sellers rely on Escobar-related souvenirs for a significant portion of their income.

“This is terrible. We have a right to work, and these Pablo T-shirts always sell well,” said Joana Montoya, a stall owner who estimates that 15% of her revenue comes from Escobar items. Some vendors say the figure is as high as 60%, making the potential ban a major economic blow.

A Step Toward Changing Colombia’s Image

While some argue that Escobar’s legacy is an unavoidable part of Colombia’s past, others believe the glorification of his crimes damages the country’s international reputation. Supporters of the bill point to countries like Germany, where Nazi symbols are banned, as examples of how nations can prevent historical criminals from being idolized.

Medellín’s mayor, who has backed the bill, called the merchandise “an insult to the city, the country, and the victims”.

One of those victims is Gonzalo Rojas, whose father was killed in 1989 when Escobar’s cartel bombed Avianca Flight 203, killing all 107 passengers and crew. Rojas believes the bill is a step in the right direction but emphasizes that education is key.

“We need to deliver a different message to younger generations, so they don’t see cartel bosses in a positive light,” he said.

A Shift from Notoriety to Remembrance

The bill, which still needs to pass several stages in Congress, is not about erasing history but rather changing how it is remembered. It aims to move the focus from Escobar’s criminal mythos to honoring the victims and ensuring that Colombia’s future is not defined by its past.