Abstract
This article examines how the Constitutional Court of Colombia (CCC) balances its role as guardian of the Colombian constitutional order while engaging in regional integration processes across Latin America. Through an analysis of constitutional theory, institutional development and the Colombian political context since 1991, the study explores how the Court interprets constitutional integration clauses while navigating increasing populist pressures. Moving beyond reductionist views of populism as mere demagoguery, the article analyses case studies of two contrasting populist leaders: conservative authoritarian Álvaro Uribe (2002–10) and progressive reformist Gustavo Petro (2022–26). By examining the theoretical foundations of constitutional guardianship and the institutional framework within which the Court operates, this analysis highlights the complex relationship between constitutional courts, regional integration and populist challenges in Latin America. The findings demonstrate how the CCC has developed judicial approaches that, while focused on domestic constitutional matters, contribute to broader regional judicial discourse. This theoretical exploration underscores how constitutional courts can shape regional integration processes while safeguarding their domestic institutional legitimacy. The Colombian experience offers valuable insights into the evolving role of constitutional courts in balancing national sovereignty with regional legal developments in an era of rising populism
