Supporting the Colombian Peace Process

Since official talks began between the Colombian Government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) three years ago, the UK has been committed to supporting the Peace Process in any way we can.  Commitment to achieving a lasting peace has resulted in tough negotiations for both sides. I encourage all parties to maintain efforts to reach a sustainable agreement – the right agreement is more important than a date.

The people of Colombia have suffered greatly over the last 50 years. Decades of fighting has left millions of Colombians displaced, missing or affected by violence in some way.  The country still has a long way to go, but great advances are being made.

Alongside an independent electoral watchdog, our Embassy in Bogotá helped to monitor Colombia’s regional elections last October.  President Santos called the elections “the most peaceful in recent history”. And in December, the Colombian Government became the first country outside of Europe to publish a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights; again with the support of our Embassy.

That is why I am delighted that the UK is making two significant financial contributions to support the Colombian Peace Process.  The first is a donation of £4.2 million to a UN Trust Fund. This contribution will increase the Colombian Government’s capacity and resources to fund peace initiatives, addressing issues such as food security, the removal of landmines, and the strengthening of the justice system at both local and national level.

We are also a strong supporter of the EU’s efforts to advance the Colombian Peace Process. We will contribute £1.1m to an EU Trust Fund, to be matched by Germany. The EU Trust Fund will focus on areas such as rural development, increased political participation and promoting women’s entrepreneurship. These donations exemplify the UK’s unwavering support and commitment to peace-building and the upholding of human rights in Colombia.

A proud global leader, Britain will continue to play a central role in the issues that matter. The values that define us– rule of law, democracy, equality, individual liberty, free speech and mutual respect, tolerance and understanding – resonate with billions around the world, and often set the standard that others seek to reach. My friend and colleague Baroness Anelay recently visited Bogotá to help demonstrate the UK’s commitment to peace-building and the upholding of human rights in Colombia. As Colombia moves forward in this ground-breaking peace process, the United Kingdom is proud to stand in solidarity and support.