Colombia has initiated peace talks with the ACSN as part of President Gustavo Petro’s “Total Peace” initiative, aiming to demobilize the armed group and address its criminal activities. Local leaders support the dialogue, focused on reintegration and community protection. These negotiations are crucial amid Colombia’s security challenges and human rights issues, with leaders expressing a commitment to peace amidst ongoing violence.
The Colombian government has announced the initiation of peace negotiations with the Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (ACSN). This initiative, part of President Gustavo Petro’s “Total Peace” strategy, aims to demobilize one of the significant armed groups operating in Colombia’s Caribbean region, marking a notable advancement in peace efforts. Local officials and community leaders have expressed their support for this dialogue.
The government confirmed that a socio-legal dialogue table will be established with the ACSN. This group, situated in northern Colombia’s Sierra Nevada mountain range, has shown a readiness to negotiate, seeking peace and reintegration in exchange for laying down their weapons. Óscar Mauricio Silva, the government’s delegate, stated that the exploratory phase has concluded, and formal talks will focus on dismantling the group’s criminal activities and facilitating the reintegration of its members.
Silva remarked on the importance of this development, stating, “This is a crucial step in the ongoing effort to achieve peace in Colombia.” He emphasized the government’s commitment to implementing the peace process outlined previously in a resolution signed by President Petro. The talks are particularly timely given the ongoing security challenges faced in the Sierra Nevada region.
Authorities have linked the ACSN to various criminal activities, including drug trafficking and extortion, which have contributed to a volatile security environment. The group’s violent confrontations with local communities and rival factions have raised concerns among residents, which has magnified the urgency of these peace talks. Expression of gratitude and readiness for negotiation has been made publicly by the ACSN through their social media channels.
Local leaders, including Jennifer Del Toro, Santa Marta’s high commissioner for peace, have voiced their support for this initiative. Del Toro reiterated the commitment of the local government to collaborate with the central government in promoting peace and providing the necessary resources for investment in the region. This collaboration underscores the community’s role in supporting peace efforts.
In addition to peace efforts, the Colombian government faces increasing scrutiny concerning human rights violations, such as the recruitment of minors by armed groups and violence against civilians. Officials are seeking to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, who have suffered due to armed conflict in regions like Norte de Santander and Chocó. Del Toro highlighted the critical importance of protecting society’s most vulnerable individuals.
The ACSN has a history of organized crime involvement, extending to extortion of local businesses, including tourism sectors, and engaging in violent territorial control. Furthermore, they have been implicated in forced community displacements. José Luis Pérez, a prominent figure within the ACSN, has publicly affirmed the group’s dedication to pursuing peace, stating, “If the laws are quickly passed with guarantees for us, we are willing to give up our weapons,” underscoring their readiness to negotiate.
On the horizon, the ACSN’s leadership has also suggested a truce with the Clan del Golfo to help mitigate violence in coastal regions, which could significantly stabilize an area known for its drug-related crimes. The commencement of peace talks coincides with the expanded territorial control exerted by the National Liberation Army (ELN) guerillas, as increasing percentages of Colombian territory now fall under the influence of illegal armed groups, exacerbating the crisis.
With over 70% of Colombia now under the control of such groups, the peace negotiations with the ACSN represent a vital opportunity for the government to curb violence and address security concerns affecting various departments. The coming months will be pivotal for establishing a comprehensive peace agreement that addresses the complex issues arising from decades of conflict, particularly concerning the indigenous populations of the Sierra Nevada.
The Colombian government’s peace negotiations with the Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada mark a significant step towards addressing the violence and instability in the Caribbean region. Emphasizing sustainability and reintegration, these discussions aim to dismantle criminal activities while safeguarding vulnerable populations. With local leaders advocating for peace, the success of this initiative could pave the way for a comprehensive resolution to ongoing conflicts, fostering stability and healing in Colombia.
Original Source: thecitypaperbogota.com
