JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
Miroslav Jenča told Security Council on Monday that the 2016 agreement must be implemented in full, with proper funding, better coordination between agencies and protection for former combatants.
He pointed out the real benefits that could be achieved: rural development, and mechanisms for transitional justice and reparations for victims. But he admitted that implementation has “many shortcomings” and much remains to be done.
Security policies and peace agreements must reinforce each other, Jenča said, and the agreements must be implemented comprehensively.
“We look forward to further definition of its policies, and we stand ready to support the Government in this regard,” he said, while recounting the experience the UN Verification Mission has gained over nearly a decade in supporting implementation.
Violence stalks the community
Communities in conflict-affected areas remain vulnerable to armed groups, geographic isolation, and limited access to public services. Recruitment of children, particularly among ethnic communities, as well as threats and attacks against women remain major concerns, ambassadors said.
Government data submitted to legislators shows this illegal armed groups grew from around 15,000 members in 2022 to around 28,000 currently.
Mr Jenča also condemned the murder of civil society leaders María Ovidia Palechor and James Flor in Cauca on 1 September, highlighting the risks faced by human rights defenders.
He said expanding economic opportunities, improving public services and strengthening local institutions were critical to reducing violence.
Reintegration commitment
Despite these challenges, more than 11,000 former members of the FARC-EP rebel group remain committed to reintegration.
With state and international support, they have developed around 6,000 productive projects and 300 cooperatives in various sectors including agriculture, tourism, trade and textiles.
Mr Jenča highlighted tourism initiatives involving former combatants and victims, which aim to stimulate the local economy and job market.
However, economic sustainability and security remain major challenges. Since the agreement was signed in 2016, 501 former combatants have been killedthe last on September 22 at Cesar.
The Special Representative reiterated the UN mission’s readiness to continue supporting implementation and highlighting its benefits on the ground, and noted that for nearly a decade, the mission has built relationships of mutual trust in some of the regions most affected by ongoing violence.
Colombia has entered “a new political chapter, with various challenges ahead,” Jenča said, calling for “continued international engagement to overcome remaining obstacles.”
