In 2024, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights spotlighted the precarious human rights landscape in Colombia. This examination divulged the intricate interplay between territorial violence and the internal armed conflict, revealing their pervasive impact on both human rights and civic engagement. Key progress included the ratification of the Escazú Agreement and Colombia’s election to the Human Rights Council for the term 2025-2027.
The year was marked by significant reports from international experts highlighting hurdles in actualising the 2016 Peace Agreement with the FARC-EP, as well as a steady commitment from the Human Rights Council to enhance technical cooperation within Colombia. Several independent mechanisms were established, led by various special rapporteurs, who raised alarms regarding societal polarization and the historic economic model contributing to human rights violations across marginalized communities.
Concerns were voiced about the dire conditions faced by Indigenous Peoples, who remain at risk of cultural and physical extinction amidst encroaching violence and exploitation by the extractive industries. The plight of poverty, exacerbated by the conflict, emerged as a critical concern, with children from impoverished backgrounds facing bleak futures.
Colombia also hosted a landmark gathering for the Convention on Biological Diversity, featuring discussions focused on amplifying the voices of Indigenous Peoples and Afro-descendant communities. Despite the challenges, this event marked a notable occasion, celebrating human rights in an unprecedented manner.
The OHCHR prioritised 26 situations across 96 municipalities, conducting around 610 field missions and 290 training sessions aimed at strengthening state and civil society capacities in addressing human rights issues amid escalating violence.
The UN Human Rights report on Colombia in 2024 reveals the detrimental effects of territorial violence and armed conflict on human rights. It notes advancements such as ratifying the Escazú Agreement and participation in the Human Rights Council. The report emphasises challenges faced by marginalized communities, especially Indigenous Peoples and those in poverty, amidst ongoing violence and economic exploitation.
The 2024 report on human rights in Colombia highlights a landscape riddled with challenges, particularly surrounding the legacy of violence and economic disparities. While significant advancements have been made regarding participation in environmental discourses and commitments to international agreements, daunting obstacles remain, particularly for Indigenous and Afro-descendant populations. The continuation of field missions and capacity-building efforts signifies a resolute commitment to addressing these urgent human rights concerns, laying the groundwork for a more equitable future.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
