The Catatumbo region of Colombia faces an escalating crisis as violence intensifies between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and spin-off groups of the disbanded Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). This surge in conflict has forced over 32,000 people to flee to towns in northeastern Colombia. The escalation of hostilities last week resulted in the displacement of tens of thousands, with Colombian authorities reporting that 80 individuals have been killed in the fighting.
The conflict has roots tracing back to the 1960s and '70s when the ELN and FARC were established as left-wing guerrilla groups. Today, these groups are primarily involved in drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The Catatumbo region, a strategic territory for drug production and trafficking due to its proximity to Venezuela, has become a focal point for these violent clashes.
The humanitarian impact is significant. Many displaced individuals have sought refuge in neighboring Venezuela or found temporary shelter in hotels and relatives' homes. In the city of Cúcuta alone, over 15,000 displaced people have arrived, with more continuing to seek safety daily. To address the influx, the Colombian government has deployed over 5,000 soldiers and special forces to maintain order in Cúcuta.
In response to the violence, the Colombian government has suspended peace talks with the ELN. President Gustavo Petro described the group's actions as "criminal." The Attorney General's Office has also reactivated arrest warrants for 31 ELN members previously involved in peace negotiations. Human Rights Watch has criticized the situation, stating that the ELN's "total peace" initiative has allowed armed groups to expand their influence and control over remote communities.
“The crisis in Catatumbo should be a wake-up call for the Petro administration. Its ‘total peace’, coupled with the lack of effective security and justice policies, have allowed armed groups to expand their presence and brutal control over remote communities across Colombia,” said Juanita Goebertus.
The crisis has prompted a wave of evacuations, with over 400 people being evacuated from Catatumbo since the recent increase in fighting. In Venezuela, Foreign Minister Yván Gil has initiated a humanitarian operation to support Colombian families who have crossed into the municipality of Jesus Maria Semprún near the border.
Efforts to accommodate those displaced are underway. The Colombian government has launched a major campaign to offer shelter, including converting the city's football stadium into a large welcome center. Jorge Acevedo expressed solidarity with those affected by the crisis.
“We are going to address the emergency that is occurring. Total solidarity, respect, affection and love for these human beings who are arriving in the city of Cúcuta,” said Jorge Acevedo.
