The Colombian government begins peace talks with the Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada (ACSN), part of President Gustavo Petro’s ‘Total Peace’ initiative. The discussions aim to combat criminal activities and aid reintegration of armed members, amid rising scrutiny over human rights violations. Local authorities and the ACSN leader express commitment to negotiations, crucial for stabilizing the region.
The Colombian government has announced the start of peace negotiations with the Self-Defense Forces of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta (ACSN), a significant step in President Gustavo Petro’s “Total Peace” initiative. This was welcomed by local leaders and officials, with hopes of demobilizing one of Colombia’s key armed groups in the Caribbean region.
The government plans to set up a socio-legal dialogue table to engage with the ACSN. The group operates in northern Colombia’s Sierra Nevada and shows readiness to negotiate and disarm in pursuit of peace and reintegration. The negotiations aim to dismantle criminal activities associated with the ACSN while facilitating the reintegration of its members.
Óscar Mauricio Silva, the government’s peace talks delegate, stated that the exploratory phase is complete, and formal negotiations will commence. Silva stressed the government’s commitment to fully implementing the peace process outlined in a resolution from August last year. He remarked that this is a pivotal moment in Colombia’s peace efforts.
The ACSN has been linked to drug trafficking, extortion, forced displacement, and recruitment of minors. Moreover, the group has a history of violent confrontations with local communities and rival criminal organizations. Addressing these issues will be a fundamental aspect of the talks to ensure long-term stability.
In an expression of gratitude for the peace process, the ACSN stated they are prepared to engage in negotiations. Local authorities, including Jennifer Del Toro, the high commissioner for peace in Santa Marta, have voiced strong support for the talks and emphasized a collective commitment to fostering peace in the region.
Colombia is currently facing heightened scrutiny regarding human rights concerns, particularly relating to the recruitment of minors and violence against civilians in Norte de Santander and Chocó. Del Toro highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, especially children exploited by armed organizations.
The ACSN has become notorious for organized crime, notably in extorting local businesses and enforcing violent control over territories. Such actions have led to the forced displacement of many communities, aggravating the humanitarian crisis.
José Luis Pérez, a paramilitary leader, has publicly affirmed the group’s willingness to pursue peace if laws ensuring their protection are quickly enacted. He indicated openness to a truce with the Clan del Golfo, aiming to reduce violence in coastal regions.
With the ELN guerrilla group expanding territorial dominance, peace talks with the ACSN are critical. Reports suggest that over 70% of Colombia is under the influence of illegal armed groups, resulting in widespread displacements and security challenges. Addressing this issue during the negotiations is crucial for restoring stability.
The upcoming months will be vital as discussions between Petro’s administration and the ACSN aim to forge a lasting peace agreement, enhancing stability in the Sierra Nevada region and facilitating recovery from long-standing conflict, particularly affecting indigenous populations.
The Colombian government’s initiation of peace talks with the ACSN represents a significant move toward addressing long-standing security and humanitarian challenges in the region. With a focus on dismantling criminal activities and ensuring the reintegration of armed members, the negotiations could foster stability and support efforts to safeguard vulnerable populations. The engagement of local authorities and the acknowledgment of human rights concerns underline the comprehensive approach required for sustainable peace in Colombia.
Original Source: thecitypaperbogota.com
