UNHCR welcomes definitive peace agreement in Colombia

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the announcement by the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) that they have reached a final, full and definitive peace agreement. After more than fifty years of armed conflict, this accord constitutes a crucial step in the quest for durable peace in Colombia, and for stability in the region.

UNHCR commends the political will demonstrated by all parties during the negotiations, and recognizes in particular their commitment to ensuring that the rights of victims, including internally displaced people and refugees, were central to the discussions.

The UN refugee agency reiterates its promise, expressed by the High Commissioner Filippo Grandi on the occasion of his recent visit to the country, to continue supporting this historic process and responding to internal displacement, focusing in particular on the integration of vulnerable groups, such as Afro-Colombians, indigenous communities and LGBTI people.

“This is a historic agreement, which brings closer the prospect of real solutions for the millions who have been displaced and affected by these decades of war”, said Mr. Grandi.

UNHCR wishes to note that the signing of the peace agreement marks the beginning of a long-term process that will require concerted efforts on the part of the Government, the FARC, local civil society, the Colombian people and the international community to make this peace a lasting reality. In this regard, finding sustainable and durable solutions for Colombian refugees and internally displaced people will be crucial.

Media Contacts:

• In Mexico City, Francesca Fontanini ([email protected], +52 1 55 9197 2690)
• In Bogotá, Regina de la Portilla ([email protected], +57 310 2026029)
• In Geneva: Nora Sturm ([email protected], +41 79 200 76 18)