Tibú, Norte de Santander (Colombia), 24 January 2025
Mercy Corps, Misión Internacional de Justicia, and the Pies Descalzos Foundation stand in deep solidarity with the communities of Catatumbo in Norte de Santander, Colombia, who are facing the devastating consequences of violence in the region that has caused the displacement of more than 36,000 people, according to the Ombudsman's Office.
We are heartbroken by the suffering of the people in these municipalities, especially the most vulnerable: children, adolescents, women, who are the primary victims of this tragedy. We call all parties involved to promote dialogue, uphold International Humanitarian Law, protect lives and respect the fundamental rights of the affected communities. We strongly condemn the severe violence experienced in Catatumbo.
We join the efforts that the national government, the governor's office, mayors' offices, national and international organizations, the private sector, the media and individuals are making to address this humanitarian crisis. We confirm our commitment to building a lasting and sustainable peace, based on understanding, justice and respect for human dignity. We will continue to work tirelessly for reconciliation, rural development and the strengthening of the social fabric in Catatumbo, and throughout Colombia.
Signatory organizations
- Mercy Corps : is a global non-governmental organization (NGO) with 20 years of experience in Colombia , implementing humanitarian response and rural development programs. Since 2020 we have been working in the Catatumbo region supporting communities and civil society organizations to have better opportunities, promoting livelihoods and a sustainable rural economy.
- International Justice Mission : is a global non-governmental organization (NGO), whose mission in Latin America is to fight against the main forms of violence that affect women, children and adolescents, especially those living in conditions of poverty and vulnerability. Since 2021 we have been working in the Catatumbo region supporting communities in projects of coexistence and protection from violence against women, children and adolescents.
- ‘Pies Descalzos’ Foundation : Committed to the Sustainable Development Goals, we work to bring quality public education to thousands of children and adolescents in vulnerable situations in Colombia, through school infrastructure projects and educational practices, so that the next generation of Colombians see through education a vehicle for change to dream, build and fulfil their life project. At the Foundation, we have supported more than 224,000 children and young people, providing not only a protective space, but also becoming a key element in their lives.