United Nations, April 9.- The progress and challenges of the peace process in Colombia will be debated today in the United Nations Security Council during the quarterly review of what is considered a global example of conflict resolution.
In its most recent report, the organization's Verification Mission in Colombian territory recognizes important progress to date, although it calls for faster and more comprehensive actions of the Peace Agreement that translate its vision into transformative changes.
The text considers it of particular importance that stakeholders and beneficiaries, including victims, rural communities, ethnic peoples and ex-combatants alike, begin to experience more tangibly the positive impact of some of the key provisions of the Final Declaration Agreement.
At the same time, it calls for a constructive dialogue between all interested parties, within the framework established by the document signed seven years ago with the aim of overcoming the obstacles still present in the Colombian context.
The report warns of the impact of violence on rural communities, particularly indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities and women and children in regions of Colombia with little State presence.
The long-awaited progress must materialize in the most immediate future, the text adds, with a call to the Government and all entities with related responsibilities to move forward promptly.
The time has come for a successful and visible application on the ground, he adds.
The document also congratulates the Government led by Gustavo Petro and the National Liberation Army for their achievements at the negotiating table, “a process that has advanced beyond any other previous attempt between the two parties,” it recognizes.
In October 2023, the Security Council extended for another year the mandate of the UN Mission in Colombia dedicated to verifying compliance with the Peace Agreement in the South American country.
In his previous delivery, the head of that entity on the ground, Carlos Ruiz Massieu, described the peace process in that country as an example for conflict situations in other parts of the world.
Seven years after the signing of the Final Peace Agreement, there are obstacles to overcome but also ingredients for success, the representative stated when reporting to the Security Council.
The diplomat urged to take advantage of what has been achieved and give priority to those areas that have been left behind, a fundamental step to meet the expectations of millions of Colombians and reinforce the legitimacy and credibility of the instrument. (PL) (Photo: Cubaminrex website)
