Colombia Conflict Displaces People at Twice the Rate Last Year

Colombia’s Conflict Intensifies: ICRC Report Reveals Worsening Conditions for Civilians

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has released its annual report on the humanitarian situation in Colombia, documenting a significant increase in displacement, disappearances, and explosive injuries. The report highlights the worst humanitarian consequences in the last decade of the conflict, which has been ongoing since 1964.

According to the ICRC, the number of people displaced by conflict doubled in the past year, with 235,619 individuals affected. This represents a significant increase, with 42% of those displaced living alone in the department of Norte de Santander. The report also notes that the number of civilians affected by mass displacement events more than doubled to over 87,000.

The ICRC has reported an increase in the use of explosives and drones in Colombia’s conflict, resulting in a 33% rise in people killed or injured by explosive devices. Approximately 965 people were killed or injured by explosive devices over the last year.

The report emphasizes that the fear of injury or death has led many families to remain indoors, restricting access to education, crops, and vital services. Small communities have also been subject to lockdowns amid fighting by armed groups, with this number increasing by nearly 100% in 2025.

Colombia’s conflict has evolved significantly over the past decade, with several dissident groups splintering away from the FARC following the ceasefire in 2016. The left-wing government of Gustavo Petro has pursued a strategy of negotiated settlements with armed groups, known as the “Total Peace” plan. However, this approach has faced criticism from right-wing rivals, who have promised to end the program and pursue more hardline tactics.

The upcoming May 31 elections are expected to play an important role in shaping Colombia’s security policies.

Source: Al Jazeera