21.04.2026 Statement for Briefing on Colombia
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Thank you, Mr. President,
I also thank Special Representative Jenča and Ms. Olga Quintero for their briefings, and I welcome Colombia’s Foreign Minister Rosa Villavicencio to this meeting.
The latest Secretary-General’s report detailed an important political juncture in Colombia, with the election of its new congress in March. We congratulate the people of Colombia on the successful and peaceful conduct of these elections.
Elections are volatile moments, not least in countries emerging from conflict.
Looking ahead to presidential elections next month, it is imperative that authorities take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of candidates and voters to enable free, fair and inclusive elections. Democratic space, particularly in conflict-affected areas, must be protected and respected.
Against this backdrop, allow me to focus on three points.
First, as we approach the 10th anniversary of the 2016 Peace Agreement later this year, we commend the continuous commitment of the Colombian Government to implement the Agreement.
Important progress has been made, notably in areas of rural reform and reintegration – key elements for building a lasting peace. However, there is still more to be done to stabilise conflict-affected regions as highlighted also by the SRSG in his briefing. We urge the new government in Colombia to continue the course and prioritise fulfilling the promise of the Peace Agreement.
Second,
Conflict-related violence in regions across Colombia regrettably continues to pose significant danger and undermine implementation of the Peace Agreement.
The reporting period was marked by persistent security challenges for former combatants, vulnerable communities, and political and social leaders. Violence, including killings and forced displacements, continues in several departments amid clashes amongst illegal armed groups.
We further call on the government to prioritise the implementation of the policy to dismantle illegal armed groups and criminal organisations, and expand state presence in conflict-affected areas to protect vulnerable communities.
In light of this week’s opening of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, we must underscore the disproportionate impact of violence against Indigenous Peoples, including Indigenous human rights defenders. Colombia remains one of the most dangerous places in the world to be a human rights defender, with nearly one thousand individuals killed between 2016 and 2025. In this regard, enhanced implementation of the Ethnic Chapter is also key.
At the same time, women continue to face heightened risks and barriers to participation due to armed violence and gender-based discrimination.
We stress the importance of advancing women’s full, equal, meaningful and safe participation in peace implementation, as well as strengthening the protection of women leaders.
Third,
Denmark is concerned by the worsening impact of the conflict on children in Colombia. Recent reporting highlights the continued threat of recruitment and use of children by non-state armed groups, disproportionately against Indigenous Peoples and Afro-Colombians.
This was made painfully clear earlier this year, when 26 bodies, including four Indigenous children from the Nasa people, were found in an area of armed-group conflict in the Department of Guaviare.
Denmark calls on all illegal armed groups to cease their recruitment of children and release all those they have within their ranks. Strong prevention and protection measures, and prompt investigations and accountability of perpetrators are all key elements.
We welcome the significant progress made in Case 7 of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, with six former top FARC-EP commanders acknowledging their responsibility for the recruitment of over 18,000 children during the conflict and for sexual and reproductive violence. This is a positive step forward for transitional justice and redress for the victims.
Mr. President, in closing,
Denmark reiterates our steadfast support for the Colombian people on their path to sustainable and lasting peace.
Despite challenges, Colombians continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience and determination, and we wish them a safe and secure presidential election in the coming weeks.
I thank you.