In the United Nations Security Council, Joe Biden has expressed his concern to President Petro about the increase of violence in Colombia. During the verification of the peace agreement, the commission heard several pleas for Colombia to maintain strong security policies that will compel illegal groups to enter into good-faith negotiations.
The UK and US warn Colombia over rising violence
Robert Wood, the US’s alternative representative to the UN, expressed his ongoing concern about the increasing violence in regions like Antioquia and Chocó, saying that “the escalation of violence threatens the security and development of ethnic groups and their communities.”
James Kariuki, the UK’s deputy representative to the UN, echoed this sentiment. “Assassinations of activists, veterans, and LGBTQ members challenge the peace agreement…..we call for the government to take urgent measures to face this crisis.”
The Biden administration has especially focused on the assassination of Indigenous leader Carmelina Yule Pavi by FARC dissidents. “Biden believes a security strategy is essential to force illegal groups to negotiate in good faith and avoid impunity for their crimes.”
Carlos Ruis Massieu, Chief of the UN observing Mission, sent an emphatic warning to the Petro government. “Ceasefires by themselves are not enough….Peace agreements require complementary policies, such as dissolving armed groups, and a governmental defense policy.”
The Colombian foreign minister, Luis Gilberto Murillo, said, “We receive these observations as an opportunity to improve.” He continued, “In such difficult times globally, Colombia is determined to be an example of peace, life, and democracy.”
The foreign minister also proposed to the Security Council for those who were signatories to the peace agreements to participate in the Colombian reports in the council. This all but confirms that the government still has to deliver on its promise of peace. The Security Council will continue to monitor the situation closely.
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