Insightful Reflections: A UN Security Council Dialogue on Colombia’s Future

Ambassador Dorothy Shea
Chargé d ’Affairs ad interim
New York, New York
January 22, 2025

AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Mr. President. SRSG Ruiz Massieu, Mr. Tovar, and Mr. Valbuena, we appreciate your presentations. And we are glad to welcome Minister Murillo.

The United States has steadfastly backed the implementation of Colombia’s Peace Accord since its endorsement in 2016.

Furthermore, the United States will persist in working towards a durable and lasting peace in Colombia.

The Peace Accord aimed to tackle conflict-related atrocities and violations that occurred over a span exceeding 50 years. Nevertheless, Colombia continues to face enduring repercussions of conflict.

We acknowledge the endeavors of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace to put an end to impunity for conflict-related offenses and to address the needs of victims and survivors. We also express our gratitude for the supportive role taken by the UN Verification Mission.

We appeal to the Government of Colombia to sustain its dedication to achieving justice for victims and survivors of the conflict, including those affected by gender-based violence. Without these initiatives, Colombia will keep encountering hurdles in fulfilling its security, stability, and counternarcotics objectives.

The United States has allocated over $2.1 billion to aid the implementation of the Accord. This assistance encompasses more than $125 million dedicated to helping Colombia devise and execute development strategies in conflict-affected areas.
However, additional actions are necessary. Numerous women and youth currently endure significant trauma from the persistent violence they experience or witness, the ramifications of which will continue to be felt for some time.

Their recovery, along with their complete and genuine involvement in peace discussions, are vital elements of a resilient, sustainable peace. Women and youth must be included in the dialogue to foster a peaceful future in Colombia.

The rate of conflict-related violence and assaults against former combatants remained elevated during this reporting period and continues to raise concern.

We wish to align with the SRSG and other Council members in denouncing the recent violence in Catatumbo.

Similarly, the ongoing violence against social leaders and human rights advocates is profoundly alarming.

These offenses not only target the leaders that Colombia most needs for peacebuilding efforts, but they also create a chilling effect on their communities.

We are particularly pleased to observe the Special Jurisdiction for Peace’s initial indictments issued and advancements made regarding gender-based crimes in macro-case 11.

The United States remains dedicated to averting impunity for criminal acts perpetrated by terrorists and other unlawful armed factions. Previous peace processes have demonstrated that a security strategy is crucial to compel illegal armed groups to negotiate sincerely and to preclude impunity for their violations.

In the eight years since the Final Agreement, the execution of the peace agreement and its capability to address Colombia’s worsening security conditions remains a work in progress.

Achieving peace for all Colombians should remain a priority for all parties involved, including this very Council.

I thank you, Mr. President.

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By United States Mission to the United Nations | 22 January, 2025 | Topics: Highlights, Remarks and Highlights