In a recent development, the United Nations has called upon the Colombian government to ensure the protection of civilians amidst the escalating conflict in the Catatumbo region of the Department of Norte de Santander. Addressing the situation on Thursday, UN experts urged both state and non-state actors to adhere to international human rights standards, particularly in light of the displacement crisis triggered by ongoing violence since January 16. The conflict is reportedly the most significant humanitarian challenge Colombia has faced in decades, with over 80 targeted killings and numerous injuries documented (Jurist News).
The situation involves intense clashes between the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN) and Frente 33, a dissident faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC-EP). These groups’ confrontations have placed immense pressures on local populations including peasants, indigenous communities, women, children, human rights advocates, and former FARC-EP members. In total, nearly 56,000 individuals have been displaced to nearby municipalities such as Cúcuta, Tibú, and Hacarí, while approximately 27,000 remain confined, unable to access essential services or livelihood opportunities (ReliefWeb).
The origins of the current crisis are rooted in historical tensions exacerbated by government actions to expand the oil industry, leading to the displacement of groups like the Bari indigenous people. This forced displacement fostered the rise of several non-state armed groups including the ELN, EPL, and FARC-EP, which have since vied for control over the region, particularly in relation to illicit activities such as drug trafficking. The peace agreement signed in 2016 between the Colombian government and FARC-EP aimed to mitigate violence but was followed by the emergence of new factions such as the ELN and Frente 33 (Colombian Peace Agreement).
In response to the escalated tensions, Colombian President declared a state of emergency in Catatumbo earlier this year. Nevertheless, UN experts continue to advocate for stringent adherence to international humanitarian law and the Geneva Conventions, pressing non-state armed groups to halt their attacks immediately. To prevent a larger humanitarian catastrophe, the Ombudsman’s Office has issued a warning across seven of Colombia’s 32 departments concerning the potential for increased displacement and associated risks, including gender-based violence and human trafficking (Ombudsman’s Alert PDF).