The United States supports peace and stability in Colombia and justice for the many victims of years of vicious narcoterrorism. “Yet, establishing a real and lasting peace still remains out of reach,” said Ting Wu, U.S. Deputy Political Counselor at the United Nations. “While advancements continue in some areas, errant political leadership threatens to undermine progress made to date, and in the long run, sustainable peace for all Colombians.”
The United States remains concerned over the escalation of violence from illegal armed groups deeply, especially as upticks in violence pertain to Colombia’s domestic election cycle, said Ms. Wu.
“The United States, in the strongest possible terms, condemns all forms of political violence. Violent political rhetoric and polarization directly threaten peace and stability. . . .We are concerned that, instead of reducing violence, the Colombian government’s disorganized rush to negotiate with a multitude of armed groups has in fact created perverse incentives for these groups to ramp up their attacks in an effort to improve their negotiating position.”
The lack of coordination across the government of Colombia with the conflict-affected communities completely undermines the peace process, stated Ms. Wu. “In particular, the lack of state presence impedes progress on rural security that is necessary for a safe, just, and prosperous future.”
“The limited progress made against narco-groups combined with appeasement policies have eroded the hard-fought security successes of the past decades,” warned Ms. Wu. “The continued failure of certain parts of [the] Colombian government to act further endangers Colombians and threatens to plunge the country back into conflict.” The promise of a total peace remains elusive.
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