Colombia: Urgent Updates

On this page, you’ll find the latest updates on Colombia and the current security situation from March 2025 to present. WOLA closely monitors the situation in collaboration with communities and partners, and we will continue to update this page as new information becomes available.

March

LGBTQ+ Person Killed in Medellín (Antioquia)

On March 1, Caribe Afirmativo reported the killing of Didier Alejandro Barón Vinasco, 42, whose body was found inside a hotel located in the Boston neighborhood, Medellín, Antioquia. According to witnesses, Barón had entered the hotel accompanied by another man, who allegedly fled the scene afterward.

LGBTQ+ Person Murdered in Barranquilla (Atlantico)

According to Caribe Afirmativo Édgar Jiménez Ruiz, a 26 year old gay man, was murdered in Barranquilla on March 2 in Barranquilla. Jiménez was gravely injured in the San Pío sector of the El Bosque neighborhood. Witnesses recount that armed men approached him and carried out a lethal attack.

Social and Political Leader Assassinated in Arauca

On March 3, Wilfredo Braca, a social and political leader from the Center Democratic Party in Puerto Rondón in Arauca, was shot and killed. Armed men on a motorcycle killed him in the la Virgen neighborhood.

Rejection of Stigmatization Against CINEPP/PPP

On March 6, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights’ office rejected the recent stigmatizing attacks by the Gaitanist Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (EGC) against Colombian human rights group Center for Research and Popular Education Foundation/ Peace Program (Fundación Centro de Investigación y Educación Popular / Programa por la Paz, Cinep/PPP), falsely linking them to the ELN guerillas. It reaffirmed its support for the defense of human rights carried out by CINEP/PP and called for the protection of its members. It urged non-state armed actors to respect the life and integrity of human rights defenders, their organizations, and to comply with international humanitarian law. The Interethnic Solidarity Forum of Chocó (el Foro Interétnico Solidaridad Chocó, FISCH), also expressed concern over these statements by the EGC, warning that such accusations pose serious risks in a context of ongoing violence. CINEP/PPP categorically rejected these claims, emphasizing that it has no ties to illegal armed groups and that such accusations harm both its staff and the communities it works with across Colombia. WOLA joined other international organizations that form part of the Space for Peace Cooperation (Espacio de Cooperación para la Paz) coalition in condemning the stigmatization.

Bombardment by National Army Violates Human Rights in San Luis (Antioquia)

The Antioquia Humanitarian and Peace Roundtable (Mesa Humanitaria y de paz de Antioquia) reported that on the morning of March 9, units of the National Army bombarded the village of San Luis, Ituango Municipality, Antioquia. The security forces were pursuing members of the dissident FARC guerillas. The explosives used damaged seven civilian homes, a school, and a communal building. The operation placed the lives of residents at serious risk. Community members who approached the soldiers to demand accountability for the damage were met with gunfire in the air and smoke devices. This incident constitutes a serious violation to International Humanitarian Law and this conduct places the civilian population in the region. WOLA urges the Colombian Minister of Defense to investigate this matter and to take corrective measures to prevent putting civilians at risk in future operations.

Indigenous Leader Killed in Chocó

On March 11, the Interethnic Solidarity Forum of Chocó (el Foro Interétnico Solidaridad Chocó, FISCH), expressed its deep concern and strongly condemned the killing of Indigenous leader Futimio Valencia Duave. Valencia Duave is an Indigenous governor who was reported missing after his alleged detention by armed groups in Chocó. This act constitutes a major violation of human rights and international law, underscoring the ongoing risks faced by ethnic authorities, social leaders, and human rights defenders. FISCH expressed solidarity with his family, calling upon authorities to investigate his killing and urging protection for at-risk leaders in the region.

Three People Murdered in Las Minas (Valle del Cauca)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported the murder of three people on March 13, in the rural sector of Las Minas, in the limits between Ansermanuevo and Argelia, Valle del Cauca. The victims were reportedly inside a farmhouse when armed individuals fatally shot them in the night. Two additional people were injured in these events. The identities of the victims remain unknown. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman previously issued early warnings due to the presence of multiple armed groups in the municipality.

Glyphosate Spraying Recognized as Violence Against Ethnic Communities (Nariño)

On March 19, the Black Communities Process (Proceso de Comunidades Negras, PCN), highlighted a report by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) that determined that aerial glyphosate spraying in Nariño between 2002 and 2013 constituted a form of violence against Afro-descendant and Indigenous communities. These spraying operations caused serious harm to food security, health, water sources, and cultural and spiritual life, and were not conducted with proper consultation with affected communities. These actions treated ethnic groups like military targets which contributed to their stigmatization.

Three Bodies Found in Car Between Popayán and Cajibío (Cauca)

On March 26, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that three incinerated bodies were found in a car on the Jardines de Paz road, on the boundary between Popayán and Cajibío, Cauca. Two bodies were found in the trunk and one in the rear seat. They were allegedly bound. The victims’ identities remain unknown.

Human Rights Defender Receives Death Threat in Sincelejo (Sucre)

The Inter-ecclesial Justice and Peace Commission (Justicia y Paz) reported that on March 27, human rights defender and lawyer Juan Carlos Gaona received a death threat via WhatsApp after participating in a human rights meeting in Sincelejo, Sucre. The death threat indicated that Gaona and two other defenders from the National Movement of Crimes Committed by the State (Movimiento Nacional de Crímenes de Estado,MOVICE) were under surveillance. The three leaders were the targets of an attack that was thwarted by the presence of military personnel situated near where the meeting took place. Justicia y Paz says the death threat is indicative of a pattern of continuing intimidation and violence against social leaders in the Caribbean region. Urgent measures must be taken by the Colombian authorities to guarantee the protection of Gaona and the MOVICE leaders.

February

Journalist Receives Death Threats and is Doxxed Online (Bogotá)

On February 2, journalist Gonzalo Guillén of La Nueva Prensa filed a criminal complaint before Colombia’s Attorney General alleging threats to his life after a social media post published his home address alongside threatening language and a photo of his residence. Guillén argues that the post constitutes doxxing and incitement to violence, warning it mirrors previous cases in which killings were ordered through social media. This incident should be urgently investigated to guarantee Guillén’s protection.

Social Leader and Son Killed Amid Ongoing Violence in Barrancabermeja (Magdalena Medio)

On February 9, Regional Corporation for the Defense of Human Rights (Corporación Regional para la Defensa de los Derechos Humanos, CREDHOS) reported that in Barrancabermeja, Magdalena Medio, social leader Nancy Valderrama Pinzón—president of the Community Action Board of the Centenario settlement—was killed alongside her son Kevin Andrés Strauss Valderrama amid ongoing violence linked to territorial disputes between the ELN and AGC illegal armed groups. Threats against social leaders and human rights defenders have intensified in Barrancabermeja, with CREDHOS documenting hundreds of cases of threats, harassment, and forced displacement since 2024.

Kidnapping of Indigenous Senator Tip of the Iceberg (Cauca)

On February 10, Indigenous Nasa Senator Aida Quilcué and her two bodyguards—Álvaro Troches and Ovidio Pontón—were traveling on the road between Inzá and Totoró when they were intercepted by members of the Estado Mayor Central (EMC) FARC dissidents (the group led by Ivan Mordisco). They were kidnapped and held by this group for several hours. She was finally released unharmed due to international and national pressure. WOLA took action and also released this video. Senator Quilcué is an elder in the Nasa indigenous community that organizes itself within the Regional Nasa Indigenous Council (CRIC). In 2008, Aida’s husband was killed by members of the Colombian armed forces on the same road where the guerrillas kidnapped her. Colombia’s Attorney General has brought charges against Mordisco and the EMC FARC dissidents for their plan to exterminate the Nasa indigenous people. This entity reports that between 2022 and 2025 alone, 43 members of this community were murdered. The Nasa leaders say this number is more than 50. In addition to murders, the guerrillas have caused internal displacements, confinements, forcibly recruited minors, and attacked indigenous ancestral authorities (spiritual healers) and doctors. Some of these attacks have occurred in public places in broad daylight. Prominent leaders, including Guillermo Chicame, Carmelina Yule Pavi, and Jose Albeiro Camayo Guetio, were murdered. In the first trimester of 2025 alone, of the 55 indigenous minors recruited by illegal armed groups, 25 suffered this fate in Cauca. Indigenous female leaders like Aida are subject to threats and harassment on social networks. This and misinformation about the Nasa leadership have fueled the attacks against their community.

Council of State Annuls Protection of Black Line Sacred Sites (Magdalena)

The Center for Investigation and Popular Education (Centro de Investigación y Educación Popular, CINEP) reported that on February 12, the Council of State annulled Decree 1500, a 2018 regulation recognizing the Black Line as the spiritual and cultural boundary of the ancestral territory of the Arhuaco, Kogui, Wiwa, and Kankuamo peoples. The decision renders the recognition of 348 sacred sites in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta legally ineffective, disregarding decades of collaboration between indigenous authorities and the Colombian government to safeguard the culture and traditions of the Sierra’s indigenous people.

Community Organizer and Political Leader Assassinated (Nariño)

On February 14, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that José Humberto Erazo Niño, a recognized social leader and political activist, was killed in the village of Betulia in La Unión, Nariño. Preliminary reports indicate that he was shot and killed by armed men, though the details are still under investigation. The Human Rights Ombudsman’s office issued an early warning alert for La Unión, citing the risk of conflict between armed groups, including the Franco Benavides Front of the EMC, the ELN, and local criminal organizations.

Women’s Advocacy Organization Vandalized in Bogotá (Cundinamarca)

On February 16, Casa de la Mujer, a women’s advocacy and human rights organization, reported that their office in Bogotá was broken into and vandalized. Thieves took computers, hard drives, and paper files, and cut the electrical system. The theft of sensitive data and institutional archives has significantly impaired Casa de la Mujer from continuing their work, leaving them only with mobile communication. Information obtained from their archives places victims at risk.

Indigenous Ex-governors Politically Persecuted in Guambía Reserve (Cauca)

On February 17, El Liberal reported that four former cabildo governors of the Guambía Indigenous Reserve – Mamá Luz Dary Aranda, Taita Luis Felipe Calambas Velasco, Mamá Mercedes Tunubalá, and Taita Jesús Antonio Tunubalá – were arbitrarily detained for 72 hours and issued sanctions barring them from holding public office and removing them from community roles, amongst other political restrictions for up to 20 years. These persecutions are attributed to the current cabildo governor, Liliana Pechene Muelas, and the cabildo’s legal advisor, Thonaro Lumina. The Indigenous Authorities Movement of the Southwest (AISO) issued a statement denouncing these arbitrary persecutions, their lack of due process, and the precedent they could set in weakening the legitimacy of traditional indigenous authorities.

Transgender Activist Killed in Her Home (Bogotá)

Caribe Afirmativo reported that on the morning of February 18, trans activist Madre Constanza was found killed in her home in the Santa Fe neighborhood of Los Mártires, Bogotá. Constanza was known as the “grandmother of transvestites” for her influence within the transgender and transvestite community in Bogotá and her long-time defense of LGBTQI+ individuals.

Social and Environmental Activist Killed (Antioquia)

On February 19, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that Carlos Pérez Guzmán, a prominent social activist and environmental advocate was killed in Briceño, Antioquia. Initial reports indicate that he was killed by members of the 36th Front of the FARC dissident group, though the details remain under investigation. Early warnings are in place for Briceño, citing imminent risk due to intensified conflict between the 36th front, Clan de Golfo (EGC), and the “Guerilla Campesinas.”

Trans Woman Murdered in Cúcuta (Norte de Santander)

On February 19, Caribe Afirmativo reported that Vanessa Luciana, a trans woman, was found murdered in the Simón Bolívar neighborhood of Cúcuta, Norte de Santander.

Afro-Colombian Communities Affected by Armed Conflict and Flooding (Chocó)

On February 20, the Afro-Colombian Community Council of the San Juan River (ACADESAN) reported that 72 Afro-Colombian communities in the San Juan River region are facing severe impacts from violence between illegal armed groups and winter-related flooding. Several communities are at high risk of mass forced displacement, and at least one community was forcibly displaced. Heavy rains have caused widespread losses of crops, livestock, and homes, affecting communities across five municipalities in southern Chocó and in Buenaventura.

Trans Woman Murdered in Tolima

On February 25, Caribe Afirmativo reported the assassination of Melany Hernández, a trans woman in Lérida, Tolima. Her death occurred in the El Progreso neighborhood where she was living with other individuals. She was known in the area for working at a local commercial establishment.

Community Leader Assassinated in Cartagena (Bolivar)

The We Are Defenders Program (Programa Somos Defensores) reported the murder of Jerónimo Martínez Ballesteros on February 27. Martínez Ballesterosa was a community leader and the former president of the Community Action Board of the Colombiatón neighborhood. Martínez was traveling on a motorcycle in the Flor del Campo neighborhood when armed men shot and killed him. Community members pursued and caught the assailants who were handed over to authorities. Martínez Ballesterosa was known for advocating for housing rights.

Gay Man Killed in Hospital (Meta)

Caribe Afirmativo reported that on February 28, Jonathan Badillo, a gay individual, was found murdered in the bathroom of the Departmental Hospital in Granada, Meta. According to credible sources, the murder could be linked to victim targeting through digital platforms.

January

Three People Massacred in Riohacha (La Guajira)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that on January 31, in the rural Los Cerezos neighborhood of Riohacha, La Guajira, four armed men opened fire indiscriminately on a group of people. Luis Eduardo Estrella Valencia was killed at the scene, and José Ángel Barrios later died from his injuries after being taken to a medical facility; both were minors. A third victim, Luis José Vega Barrios, 27, was transported to a medical center without signs of life.

Five People Massacred in La Guajira

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that on January 1, five people were massacred in the Parrantial neighborhood of Maicao, La Guajira. Reports indicate that armed men traveling in a pickup truck stopped to exit the vehicle before firing upon and killing Víctor Manuel Jurado Maza, Eider Enrique Cantillo, Alex Alfonso Mendoza Ávila, Jean Carlos Meza, and Janer Luis Bustamante. Two other individuals were injured and are receiving medical attention.

Trans Woman Assassinated (Bogotá)

On January 2, Caribe Afirmativo reported the assassination of Catia, a 20-year-old trans woman in Bogotá. Catia was talking to a friend in the street when individuals on a motorcycle drove by and attacked her with a blunt object. The murder occurred in plain view of the public and she died on the spot. Caribe Afirmativo’s Observatory of Human Rights reports that this is the first LGBTIQ+ individual murdered in Colombia in 2026.

Three Women Massacred (Cauca)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported that on January 3, three individuals were fatally shot in Santander de Quilichao. Armed men shot and killed Irma Yulie Erazo Reina before pursuing other individuals in the area and killing two more, Angélica María Cantoñí Estacio, and Reina Nancy Stella.

Trans Woman Found Murdered (Valle del Cauca)

On January 9, Caribe Afirmativo reported the murder of Heilly Marcela, a trans woman who had been found slain on the streets in the Aguablanca District, commune 15. Witnesses report that she was seen in the La Isla neighborhood prior to her murder. According to Caribe Afirmativo’s Observatory of Human Rights, this is the second LGBTIQ+ person assassinated in Colombia this year.

Community Leader and Activist Killed (Norte de Santander)

On January 13, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de estudios para el desarrollo y paz, INDEPAZ) reported the assassination of Carlos Alberto Sánchez Hernández, a respected social leader and president of the Community Action Board of the Las Cumbres neighborhood in commune 6 of Cúcuta in Norte de Santander. Details related to his death are still being investigated, but initial reports indicate that he was killed with a machete in Cucutilla. Another individual accompanying him was also attacked and is in serious condition receiving medical care.

Humanitarian Gravedigger and Community Leader Murdered (Norte de Santander)

On January 15, Somos Defensores reported the assassination of Miguel Ángel López, a respected social leader and the owner of Funeraria San Miguel, a service providing dignified burials to unidentified victims of violence in Tíbu, Norte de Santander. Members of the paramilitary group EMBF opened fire on López’ car, killing him, his wife, and their six-month-old child. They are survived by their 10-year-old son.

Human Rights Defender Obstructed and Stigmatized by Attorney General’s Office

Fundación Hasta Encontrarlos reported that on January 28, during a meeting with the Attorney General’s Office and the Missing Persons Search Unit, human rights defender Pablo Cala was obstructed and stigmatized while facilitating the dignified handover of remains of a forcibly disappeared individual named Arnulfo Pesca Pérez. The Attorney General’s representative accused Cala of threatening prosecutors and refusing to provide information about the search, exhumation, identification, and military records related to the case, which hindered both Cala’s and the family’s pursuit of justice.

October–December

Wayúu Leader Suffers Assassination Attempt (La Guajira)

The José Alvear Restrepo Lawyers’ Collective (Cajar), the Center for Research and Popular Education (Cinep), and Censat Agua Viva Friends of the Earth Colombia reported that on December 12, unidentified individuals on motorcycles fired shots at the vehicle in which Wayúu indigenous human rights defender Misael Socarrás Ipuana was traveling. A well-known human rights and environmental rights defender, Misael has denounced the negative impact that the Carbons of the Cerrejón Company’s operations are having on the local Wayúu communities. Since 2004, he’s received death threats, experienced assassination attempts, arbitrary detentions, and harassment. In July 2019, he was in his vehicle with his three-year-old daughter when it was hit by firearm projectiles. On December 2, unknown men went to Misael’s house looking for him. WOLA reasserts the Colombian organizations’ asks that the Attorney General investigate the December 12 incident and bring the intellectual and material authors to justice, that the National Protection Unit (UNP) strengthen Misael and his family’s protection measures, and that the Ministry of the Environment implement actions within the Escazu Agreement.

Harassment of Afro-Colombian Senate Candidate (Cundinamarca)

On December 11, WOLA was informed that Moisés Cetré Castillo, currently a professor at the National University who is running for a Senate seat with the Green Alliance, is experiencing in-person verbal and cyber harassment on multiple social media sites. Such harassment is concerning as it can lead to physical harm. All candidates should be able to campaign without fear of harm. WOLA urges the leadership of the National University to take action to stop the harassment.

Afro-Colombian Minor Killed in Crossfire (Cauca)

On November 16, the National Coordination of Organizations and Afro-Colombian Communities (Coordinación Nacional de Organizaciones y Comunidades Afrodescendientes, CONAFRO) denounced the assassination of Charol Valeria Mosquera, a sixteen-year-old girl who was shot and killed during an altercation between the Colombian Army and illegal armed groups. WOLA joins CONAFRO in demanding the immediate investigation of this case and the adoption of non-repetition measures that will protect Afro-Colombian communities.

Human Rights Defender Dies Due to Wounds Inflicted in July (Atlántico)

On November 14, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that human rights defender and member of the Solidarity Committee for Political Prisoners (Comité de Solidaridad con los Presos Políticos), Nilson Andres De Arco Salcedo, was shot by a man on a motorcycle on July 20 in the municipality of Soledad. He sustained serious injuries, resulting in his passing on November 14.

Five Miners Assassinated at Workplace (Bolivar)

On November 4, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that suspected ELN members barged into a gold mine and shot five workers at the scene. They also destroyed machinery and caused the internal displacement of the mining community in the zone.

Indiscriminate Shooting Causes Four Fatalities (Cauca)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) informed that on November 3, unknown individuals indiscriminately shot at a bar in the municipality of Corinto. There were four fatalities. The victims are reportedly two men and two women, with a possible minor among the group.

Four Victims Shot and Killed at a Bar (Valle del Cauca)

On November 1, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that during a shooting at a bar, four people were shot and killed in the municipality of El Aguila. In addition to the fatalities, three people were also hurt and transported to the hospital.

Multiple Attacks Against Lawyers and Human Rights Defenders (National)

After months of physical and psychological attacks, the Humanity Legal Corporation (Humanidad Vigente Corporación Juridica) expressed grave concern for the safety of members of its People’s Legal Team (Equipo Jurídico Pueblos). They urge Colombian authorities to effectively dismantle the illegal armed groups that are attacking human rights defenders. In particular, they ask for protection for Leonardo Jaimes, one of their members, who the 33rd Front (Frente 33), a splinter group of FARC, is persecuting.

Flooding Highlights Need for Investment in Local Infrastructure (Chocó)

The Afro-Colombian General Council of San Juan (ACADESAN) made a public statement on October 30, requesting the construction of eight shelters with funds from the Colombian National Unit for Disaster Risk Management after the recent flooding of the San Juan River. The flooding has impacted the municipalities of Sipí, Nóvita, Medio San Juan, Istmina, Litoral del San Juan, and Buenaventura.

Activist Assassinated (Valle del Cauca)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) notified that on October 27, Guillermo Velasco, renowned farmer activist and the founder of the Perpetual Agriculture Association (Asociación Agroperpetua), was taken and assassinated by a group of men in Palmira, damaging homes, infrastructure, and crops.

Motorcycle Shooting Results in Three Deaths (Antioquia)

On October 26, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that armed men on motorcycles indiscriminately opened fire on a group of young people. Five people were injured, and three passed away shortly after the occurrence, which was described as a “social cleansing” against drug consumers. The victims were also suspected of having been part of the group “Los Mesa”, which operates in the municipality of “El Carmen de Viboral”.

September 2025

Municipal Youth Council Candidate Murdered (Antioquia)

On September 23, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the murder of  Yeimar Gamboa Yépez, a youth leader who advocated for human rights, reconciliation, and youth engagement.  Yépez had just started transitioning from social leader to politics. He was the Democratic Center’s (Centro Democratico) candidate for Municipal Youth Council. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office issued a previous alert concerning increased safety concerns for human rights activists in the municipality of Chigorodóy.

Rights Ombudsman Releases Report on Internal Displacement 

On September 22, Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman released a report on internal displacement and the humanitarian situation in the country.  In this, they highlight that from January to August 2025, more than 159,000 people became internally displaced. Most internal displacements took place in August. During that month, 16 massive internal displacements were recorded, making it the month with the highest number of internal displacements. It registered 16 massive internal displacements (2,934 people) and 10 cases of confinement (6,174 people). The department of North Santander was the worst affected, followed by the Chocó. WOLA echoes the Ombudsman’s call to authorities to deliver humanitarian assistance, shelter, psychological help, and education to the victims. 

Trans Woman Assassinated in Popayán during Police Operation (Cauca) 

Caribe Afirmativo reported that on September 22, Karen was murdered in the town of  La Esmeralda nearPopayán, Cauca. Karen’s death is the second to be reported of an LGBTQ+ person during a police operation since September 15. 

Trade Unionist Murdered in San Luis (Valle del Cauca)

On September 22, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ reported the murder of trade unionist Oscar Becerra Aguirre. Mr. Aguirre was stabbed and died on the way to the hospital.

Trans Man Dies in Police Detention (Valle del Cauca)

Caribe Affirmativo reported on September 20 that Nacho, a trans man, died while in police custody in the Las Flores de Palmira Police Station, Valle del Cauca. WOLA calls on the Ministries of Defense and Equality to investigate this matter and bring the perpetrators to justice. 

Dissident FARC Should Immediately Release Indigenous Youth Leader (Cauca)

On September 20, indigenous youth Eybar Alban Liz Quiguanás, an indigenous youth leader, was kidnapped by the Dagoberto Ramos column of the dissident FARC in Tierradentro, Santa Rosa, Cauca. The Santa Rosa Indigenous Reserve in Capicisco, along with the leadership of the Regional Indigenous Council of Cauca (Consejo Regional Indigena del Cauca, CRIC), is calling on the illegal armed actors to release Mr. Quiguanás. We urge Colombian institutions, international embassies and agencies operating in Colombia, and the international and Colombian civil society to all call for his release and an end to violations committed against Indigenous communities in Cauca. 

Ethnic Authorities Demand to Be Included in Peace Dialogue with Paramilitaries (Chocó)

On September 19, the Afro-Colombian Peace Council (CONPA) and the Interethnic Forum for Solidarity in Chocó (FISCH) urged the Colombian government to include them in the dialogues taking place with the paramilitary successor group, the Gaitanista Army of Colombia (Ejército Gaitanista de Colombia, EGC). Ethnic communities are negatively impacted by the ECG. As such, their inclusion ensures that peace efforts are sustainable. The Afro-Colombians and Indigenous peoples ask that the parties to the conflict implement humanitarian actions to relieve tensions while this process is taking place. Doing so would improve protection for ethnic authorities and communities residing in the municipalities that the Atrato River crosses. Furthermore, the ethnic groups urge that the dialogue include discussions on sexual violence, ethnic minorities’ right to their territory, and respect for their organizational processes. 

Guerrillas Kill 3 and Injure 1 Person in Los Cocuyos, Valle del Cauca)

On September 19, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that men who identified themselves as guerrillas dragged Yilber Adrián López, Pablo Auce, Jhoan López Díaz, and Johan López Díaz out of their property in Ginebra, Valle del Cauca. They proceeded to take the four persons to the nearby train tracks and shoot them. Three of the victims died, and another survived with wounds. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman previously alerted authorities of increased insecurity and risk in Ginebra due to the territorial dispute between two FARC dissident groups (Frente Adan Izquierdo del Estado Mayor Central and Frente 57 Yair Bermúdez).

Armed Assault Against a Vehicle Kills Three People (Valle del Cauca) 

On September 18, three people were assassinated at Club Campestre in the city of Cali, Valle del Cauca. According to the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ), Brandon Asdrúbal Castrillón Medina, Daniel Esteban Freire Martínez, and a third unidentified man were murdered. 

Wounaan Phobor Community in Buenaventura Under Threat (Valle del Cauca) 

In September, the Network of Communities Constructing Peace in Colombia (Red de Comunidades Construyendo Paz en Colombia, ConpazCol) reported harassment of the Wounaan Phobor Indigenous persons located in the Humanitarian Shelter for Peace (Albergue Humanitario por la Paz) in Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca. These incidents are affecting the residents’ security and their ability to live in peace. In two separate instances, a traditional healer fell victim to extortion and death threats against him and his family. An unknown man with a white truck has suspiciously situated himself at the entrance of the community. ConpazCol is asking for an investigation into the perpetrators of the harassment. The State should provide the Wounaan Phobor with an update on their petition for collective measures. Their peace proposals should also be integrated into the urban socio-juridical dialogue taking place with the gangs in Buenaventura. 

Colombia Leads World in Killings of Environmental and Land Rights Activists

Global Witness issued its annual report on the security of environmental and land rights activists. Colombia remains the most dangerous country, and it comprises a third of all recorded lethal attacks in 2024. Since the 2016 Peace Accord, illegal armed groups that finance themselves with illegal economies are actively attempting to force Indigenous and Afro-descendant communities out of the country’s most biodiverse areas. Defenders of land rights facing land disputes remain highly vulnerable to violence. The violent climate is such that it is silencing cultures, debilitating the land, and undermining the environmental movements.

Human Rights Defender’s Vehicle Shot at Ten Times (Córdoba)

On September 14, Enyer Nieves, Director of the Cordoberxia Foundation’s vehicle, was shot more than ten times. This occurred shortly after Mr. Nieves participated in a municipal assembly on the topic of human rights. This is the second attack to take place against the Foundation. Its work is dedicated to promoting human rights in Córdoba.

Colombia Holds Record for Most LGBTQ+ Persons Killed in the Americas 

A recent study by Without Violence LGBTQ+ (Sin Violencia LGBTIQ+) and Colombia Diversa found that in 2024, there were 361 murders of LGBTQ+ persons. With a total of 175 victims, this makes Colombia the country with the highest murder rate of LGBTQ+ persons in Latin America and the Caribbean. Following Colombia, with the total number of victims, are Mexico (80), Guatemala (36), and Honduras (28). According to this report, on average, every 24 hours, an LGBTQ+ person is killed in Latin America and the Caribbean.  The most affected diverse identities were cis gay men (36%) and trans women (31%). At least 21 of the total 361 victims were in a position of leadership as LGBTQ+ community activists. 

Violence and Confinement Affecting Seven Municipalities (Cauca)

On September 19, the Network for Life and Human Rights reported that illegal armed groups had placed bombs on the roads surrounding the municipalities of Toribio, Corinto, Cajibio, Morales, Carloto, Silvia, and Miranda, Cauca. This restricted the movement of the civilians in these seven municipalities. Violence perpetrated by the groups led to the death of well-known soccer player Uriel Conda in Corinto. Colombian authorities must take action to protect the civilian population and prevent the forced recruitment of youth by the illegal armed groups. 

Altercation at a Bar Results in Three Dead (Cauca)

On September 14, an altercation between two people at the BBT bar in Popayan, Cauca, escalated when a man pulled out a gun and indiscriminately opened fire. This resulted in the deaths of Daniel Felipe Samboni Valverde, Orlando Ivan Cuscue Guacas, and Carlos Mauricio Mosquera Vernaza. The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) stated that the victims passed away at the scene. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman previously issued a warning to rural communities due to the expansion of Bloque Occidental Comandante Jacobo Arenas, and their attempts to control strategic corridors and the population. 

At Least Fifty-Four Families Internally Displaced for a Second Time (Chocó)

On September 13, the Afro-Colombian General Council of San Juan (ACADESAN) reported that violence by illegal armed groups is generating mass internal displacement, including that of the Fugiado community in the Chocó. The Afro-Colombian authorities demand that all the parties to the conflict respect international human rights norms. The Colombian State should take all measures to prevent and protect the civilian population caught in the middle of the conflict.

Indigenous Leaders Face Intimidation (Valle del Cauca)

On September 13, several Indigenous Nasa, Embrera, Wounan, and Pastos leaders all received a text indicating they were military targets. The text was sent to all the leaders from the same number. The Association of Authorities and Cabildos Council for Self-Governance of the Regional Indigenous Organization of Valle del Cauca (ORIVAC) listed those who were targeted: Alberto Guasiruma Aizama, así como de los líderes indígenas Walt Disney Gutiérrez, Oberney Yagari, Jairo Marcial, Hanover Guasaquillo, Aldemar Quiro, Duberney Chaguendo, Floralba Quiguapungo, Tania Yagari, Beatriz Cuaspud, Flaminio Onogama, and Andrés Dovigamo. Colombian authorities should investigate and find out who was responsible for the threats and take action to guarantee the safety and security of these Indigenous leaders.

Cauca’s Regional Indigenous Council (CRIC) faces continuing incursions (Cauca)

On September 13, the Regional Indigenous Council of Cauca (Consejo Regional Indigena del Cauca, CRIC) reported several security incidents involving members of their Program for Defending Life and Human Rights. After two of its members secured the release of a person who was kidnapped and held by an illegal armed group for days, these persons were stopped at gunpoint on the Inza-Popayán road. The armed men threatened the CRIC members and deprived them of their liberty for multiple hours. The Indigenous authorities denounced this as a blatant breach of international humanitarian law since attacking humanitarian facilitators is forbidden. Luckily, these two people were released a few hours later. This is just one example of the numerous extreme security risks facing human rights defenders in Cauca. Both CRIC and the High Commissioner for Human Rights office in Colombia demand that illegal armed actors cease to commit violence against civil society, indigenous community structures, human rights defenders, and members of the indigenous guard.  The Colombian government should put in place actions that guarantee that illegal armed groups respect humanitarian missions. 

National Protection Unit Decreases Protection, Placing Defenders at Risk (Putumayo) 

On September 11, the National Protection Unit (Unidad Nacional de Protección, UNP) notified the Interdiocesan Commission for Justice and Peace (Comisión Intereclesial de Justicia y Paz) that their protection measures would be downgraded. A decades-long partner of WOLA’s, Justicia y Paz received WOLA’s human rights award in 2015 for their outstanding work promoting peace and human rights in Colombia. We urge the U.S. Embassy to engage in dialogue with the UNP to ensure that the protection measures granted to Justicia y Paz, working in conflict areas, match the level of risk human rights defenders face in Putumayo. 

Colombian Must Address Sexual Exploitation of Afro-Colombian Women and Girls (Chocó)  

On September 12, the Humanitarian Space for the Chocó (Mesa Humanitaria del Chocó) sounded the alarm about the need to protect Afrodescendant women and girls from sexual tourism in Bahía Salano, Juradó, and Nuquí municipalities. Sexual tourism has increased in this border area due to the combination of the existing tourist spots, the presence of violent illegal armed groups, and it has become a migration and trafficking route to Central America. In this region, migrants are highly vulnerable to violence and exploitation by illegal armed groups. Disputes between landowners and the Gaitanist Army of Colombia (EGC) generate violent dynamics that intensify the existing conflicts. WOLA echoes the Humanitarian Space for Chocó’s demand to the Colombian government that it protect women and girls from trafficking and sexual tourism, address the violent land restitution processes, provide for migrants stuck in that area, and protect the locals from the violence perpetrated by EGC.

Human Rights Defenders in Montes de Maria Under Death Threat (Bolívar and Sucre)

On September 12, the Colombia-Europe-United States Coordination (La Coordinación Colombia-Europa- Estados Unidos, CCEEU), the Colombian Human Rights Platform for Human Rights, Democracy and Development (Plataforma Colombiana de Derechos Humanos, Democracia y Desarrollo), and the Alliance of Alligned Social Organizations) Alianza de Organizaciones Sociales y Afines rejected the recent attacks by illegal armed groups against leftist activists, female leaders, and land rights defenders. These threats of violence directly attack the ability of activists to defend human rights and construct peace. They also violate the right to expression and legal political involvement. The Colombian human rights platforms urge the Colombian authorities to take action to protect female leaders and feminist organizations, develop prevention mechanisms, and investigate this situation. 

Afro-Colombian Activist Murdered (Nariño)

On September 8, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the murder of Luis Fernando Sanchez, an Afrodescendant human rights defender and community leader in El Charco, Nariño. For 15 years, Fernando Sanchez promoted peace in areas most impacted by the armed conflict, supporting Afro-descendant communities and workers in the process of securing their rights. WOLA urges the Colombian authorities to bring the perpetrators of this crime to justice.

August 2025

Three SINALTRAINAL Union Leaders Threatened in Risaralda and Bolívar

On August 1st, the National Union of Workers in the Agri-Food System (SINALTRAINAL) denounced new threats and surveillance against three of its women union leaders. Paula Andrea Rojas Franco and Daniela Salazar Ospina were followed and photographed by unidentified men on motorcycles in Risaralda. In a separate incident, Alicia Cardiles was pursued by masked men in Bolívar shortly after attending a union meeting.

These threats are part of a broader pattern of violence against SINALTRAINAL. In April, Walberto Quintero Medina, vice president of the union’s Valledupar branch, was murdered. These union leaders continue to face intimidation due to their role in defending human and workers’ rights. Paula and Daniela are involved in a labor dispute with Nestlé, while Alicia has led efforts to denounce gender-based abuses and human rights violations at Seatech International Inc. WOLA calls on the Colombian government, the Ministry of the Interior, and the National Protection Unit (Unidad Nacional de Protección, UNP) to take immediate and effective measures to protect the lives of Paula, Daniela, Alicia, and their families, ensuring a gender-sensitive approach for their protection. The Attorney General’s Office must investigate these events and apprehend those responsible. The safety of all SINALTRAINAL members must be guaranteed.

Massacre Targets Vulnerable Homeless Population in Norte de Santander

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the killing of three people on August 1, 2025, in Cúcuta, Norte de Santander. According to witness accounts, a group of homeless individuals was attacked by a motorcycle rider who opened fire on them. The attack resulted in three deaths, including Jesé Apolinar González and Fabián Flórez, and six injuries. This massacre adds to a series of violent attacks attributed to a suspected “social cleansing” campaign by illegal armed groups operating in the area, including a recent grenade attack on substance users in nearby neighborhoods. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office issued Early Warning 027/24 due to violent actions by illegal armed actors aiming to impose social control through selective killings, threats, extortion, forced recruitment, and restrictions on movement.

Attempted Assassination of LGBTIQ+ Activist in Córdoba

On August 5, the Cordoberxia Foundation and Caribe Afirmativo denounced an attempted assassination against Néstor Moreno Ríos, a human rights defender and LGBTIQ+ activist in Montería, Córdoba. An armed man entered a gym where Moreno Ríos was present and attempted to shoot him. The Colombia-Europe-United States Coordination (La Coordinación Colombia-Europa- Estados Unidos, CCEEU) also joined in condemning this assassination attempt.  We urgently call on the Office of the Attorney General, the Montería Mayor’s Office, the Government of Córdoba, and the Ministry of the Interior to carry out a prompt and effective investigation. Immediate protection measures must be provided for Néstor Moreno Ríos and all human rights defenders and LGBTIQ+ activists in the Colombian Caribbean.

July 2025

Second Displacement of Sanandocito Indigenous Families (Chocó)

On July 2, 2025, due to clashes between illegal armed groups, 15 families, totaling 56 individuals, from the Indigenous community of Sanandocito were forced to flee to the urban center of Sipí municipality to protect the lives of children, elderly adults, and pregnant women. The Inter-Ethnic Forum Solidarity Chocó (Foro Interétnico Solidaridad Chocó, FISCH) issued a humanitarian alert on July 10 regarding this internal displacement, which severely affects their way of life on their ancestral land and accelerates the physical and cultural extinction of Black and Indigenous communities in the Chocó department. This is the second internal displacement this community has suffered in less than eight months.

SINTRAICAÑAZUCOL Union Leader Killed in Miranda (Cauca)

On July 14, 2025, the Institute for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) denounced the killing of Yilber Carnaval Lozada. Mr. Carnaval was a well-known union leader and member of the National Union of Sugar Cane Agroindustry Workers of Colombia (SINTRAICAÑAZUCOL) based in Cauca. Yilber had been reported missing since July 12, and his body was found with multiple gunshot wounds in the municipality of Miranda, Cauca. The Office of the Human Rights Ombudsman had already issued Early Warning 019/24, which includes the municipality of Miranda, as well as Early Warning 019/23 for social leaders. These warnings highlight the high-risk environment faced by individuals engaged in social leadership and the imposition of forms of social control by illegal armed groups. 

Afro-Colombian Female Leader Intimidated During Reparations Meeting

On July 15, the Institute on Race, Equality, and Human Rights (Raza e Igualdad), the Consultancy for Human Rights and Displacement (Consultoría para los Derechos Humanos y el Desplazamiento, CODHES), and the Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) denounced the intimidation against a leader of LA COMADRE, a collective of Afro-Colombian women victims of the armed conflict. This incident occurred during the Preparatory Phase meeting of the Collective Reparation Route, led by the Unit for Victims, causing fear among participants, disrupting the event, and affecting the emotional and physical well-being of 60 women.

We call on the Colombian State to urgently guarantee protection for Afro-Colombian women human rights defenders in line with Constitutional Court Ruling SU 546 of 2023, issued earlier this year, which recognizes the severe risks faced by these leaders. The State must adopt collective protection measures with an intersectional ethnic-racial and gender focus and strengthen coordination among institutions to prevent further attacks. LA COMADRE’s work is crucial for healing, resistance, and transformation within Afro-Colombian communities, and their participation must be fully safeguarded. Raza e Igualdad, CODHES, and WOLA reiterate their full solidarity with LA COMADRE and call on civil society to support this vital movement.

Indigenous Female Leader Murdered (Cauca)

On July 19, 2025, the Institute for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) denounced the killing of Aída Damaris Flor Camayo, an Indigenous leader from the Honduras Indigenous Reserve in Morales, Cauca. She was recognized for her active participation in the Indigenous Guard and was attacked with a firearm inside her home by an unknown assailant who fled the scene. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office has already issued Early Warnings 036/23 and 019/23, which include the Honduras Indigenous Reserve and its leaders, particularly female leaders, highlighting the ongoing threats they constantly face. We urgently call on Colombian authorities to investigate this crime, hold the perpetrators accountable, and implement effective protection measures to safeguard Indigenous leaders and human rights defenders in Cauca and across the country.

Human Rights Defender Shot in Soledad (Atlántico)

The Colombia-Europe-United States Coordination (Coordinación Colombia-Europa-Estados Unidos, CCEEU) joined the Committee for Solidarity with Political Prisoners (Comité de Solidaridad con los Presos Políticos, CSPP) in condemning the July 20 armed attack against human rights defender and community communicator Nilson de Arco. Human rights lawyer Reinaldo Villalba also reiterated the denunciation, highlighting the grave and ongoing threats De Arco faces. The CCEEU also warns that de Arco’s human rights and social justice activism must be a central hypothesis in the investigation. Authorities must not dismiss his role as a defender in understanding the motives behind the attack and must ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, especially given the widespread violence and growing presence of paramilitary and criminal groups in the region. WOLA once again calls on the Colombian authorities to urgently identify both the perpetrators and intellectual authors of the attack, and to guarantee protection for Nilson, his family, and the CSPP team in Atlántico.

Nasa Ancestral Knowledge Keeper Killed in Cauca

On July 22, the Cauca Regional Indigenous Council (Consejo Regional Indígena del Cauca, CRIC) denounced the assassination of the ancestral knowledge keeper Marcos Yonda. Mr. Yonda was recognized for his work in traditional knowledge essential to the Nasa People in Tierradentro, of which he was a part. He was found dead in his home with signs of stab wounds, and his death is profoundly painful for his family and community in the municipality of Páez, in the territory of Tálaga, Taravira. This is not an isolated event, but rather part of systemic acts of violence that deeply harm the cohesion of an ancestral community and can lead to the extermination of cultural practices and knowledge necessary to preserve their distinct ethnic identity.

Suspected ELN Members Kill Social Leader (Cauca)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the killing of Luis Fernando Mayorga Rodríguez, a respected social leader and president of the Community Action Board of Villa Nueva hamlet in Bolívar, Cauca. On July 22, 2025, his body was found with multiple gunshot wounds. Preliminary reports indicate he was intercepted at an illegal checkpoint by armed men allegedly belonging to the ELN, forced onto a motorcycle, and later shot.

This murder underscores the ongoing insecurity faced by social leaders in Cauca and the failure of the Colombian state to provide protection. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office had already issued Early Warning 020 of 2022, warning about violent clashes between the ELN and the Carlos Patiño Front, a dissident faction of the former FARC-EP. We call on authorities to urgently investigate and protect vulnerable communities in this highly violent area.

Indigenous and Trans Leader Murdered (Antioquia)

The Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) denounced the killing of Fernanda Domicó, an Indigenous social leader of the Embera people and a trans woman murdered on July 25, 2025, in Dabeiba, Antioquia. Fernanda served as the head of the Dabeiba Fire Department and was widely recognized for her leadership, advocacy for Indigenous rights, and visibility as a trans woman. Her body was found on a rural property with multiple stab wounds to the head and face. Her assassination underscores the Colombian state’s ongoing failure to protect those most at risk and the urgent need for comprehensive protection mechanisms that address the compounded vulnerabilities faced by trans women and Indigenous defenders. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office had already issued Early Warning 019 in 2023, highlighting specific threats in this area, including the violent control of territory by illegal armed groups. We urge the Colombian authorities to investigate this crime.

Kidnapping of Catholic Priest Highlights Ongoing Threat to Religious Leaders (Cundinamarca)

International Christian Concern reported the disappearance of Father Carlos Saúl Jaimes Guerrero, of Our Lady of Grace of the Order of Saint Augustine. He was kidnapped on June 17, 2025, in a rural area of Cundinamarca. After 41 days missing, he was released on July 27. Authorities confirmed he is in good health and reunited with his community.

His case is not isolated. It follows the discovery of a mass grave containing Evangelical Christians who had also been reported missing. Armed groups continue to target religious leaders because of their influence and their opposition to guerrilla and paramilitary violence. We urge the Colombian government and the National Protection Unit (UNP) to investigate this case, hold those responsible accountable, and take immediate measures to protect religious leaders and avoid future disappearances.

Threats Against Judge Heredia Endanger Judicial Independence and the Rule of Law

On July 29, 2025, the José Alvear Restrepo Lawyers’ Collective (Colectivo de Abogados José Alvear Restrepo, CAJAR) expressed its deep concern and strongly rejected the attacks and accusations against Judge Sandra Heredia. These attacks, including from members of Congress, came after her verdict convicting Álvaro Uribe Vélez for witness tampering and bribery in a criminal case. Such actions threaten judicial independence, a fundamental principle of the rule of law, and endanger not only democracy and autonomous judicial function but also the life, integrity, and safety of Judge Heredia and her family.

Judge Heredia has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to justice and its independence. It is crucial to protect those who carry out their duties rigorously and lawfully, ensuring they can act without fear of retaliation. We demand that the Colombian State immediately guarantee the safety and security of Judge Heredia and her family, respect judicial independence, especially in politically sensitive cases, and investigate and sanction all acts of harassment against her and other justice officials.

Son of Leader of Mothers for Peace in Catatumbo Attacked (Norte de Santander)

On July 7, the Mothers for Peace in Catatumbo (Madres del Catatumbo por la Paz, MCP) denounced an assault against the son of its president, Carmen García, in Cúcuta. The young man was beaten and dragged along the pavement, suffering multiple physical injuries and severe psychological trauma. This attack poses a direct threat not only to his safety but also to the human rights work carried out by these mothers in Catatumbo and Cúcuta. MCP had previously warned of the heightened risk created by harassment campaigns targeting its president and other members.

WOLA condemns this attack, especially given the prior urgent requests to increase security measures for Carmen García and her family. We call on the authorities to immediately open an investigation, identify those responsible, and impose the appropriate sanctions. We also urge the Governor’s Office of Norte de Santander and the Mayor’s Office of Cúcuta to urgently reinforce protections for Carmen García, her family, and the internally displaced mothers under their care. This violent act reveals a serious failure to protect these human rights defenders and underscores the urgent need for decisive action to guarantee their safety.

Stigmatizing Attacks Against Lawyers and Victim in President Uribe Case

On July 15, 2025, the José Alvear Restrepo Lawyers’ Collective (Colectivo de Abogados José Alvear Restrepo, CAJAR) denounced new stigmatizing attacks from former President Álvaro Uribe Vélez against the organization and lawyer Reinaldo Villalba Vargas, who represents Senator Iván Cepeda in a case involving former President Alvaro Uribe Velez.

The attacks perpetrated during the trial against Uribe violate rulings by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and heighten the risks to the safety and integrity of these human rights defenders. The false accusations, alleging links to guerrilla groups and criminal actors, echo past patterns of persecution and are part of a broader smear campaign encouraging aggressions against CAJAR, Villalba, and Cepeda. Both Cepeda and Villalba have filed criminal complaints with Colombia’s Attorney General’s Office. El Reporte Coronell revealed that there exists an alleged plot to discredit Senator Cepeda and the prominent lawyer Miguel Angel del Rio.

We urgently call on Colombian authorities and the international community to condemn these stigmatizing statements, ensure the protection of CAJAR members, Villalba, Senator Cepeda, and Angel del Rio and to guarantee their full rights to legal defense and freedom from harassment.

Human Rights Defender Shot in Soledad (Atlántico)

On July 20, 2025, the Committee for Solidarity with Political Prisoners (Comité de Solidaridad con los Presos Políticos, CSPP) denounced an armed attack against Nilson de Arco, a human rights defender and member of the committee. A man on a motorcycle approached and shot de Arco at close range in Soledad, Atlántico, while he was documenting human rights concerns. De Arco is currently hospitalized; his family and witnesses to the attack are also facing imminent risk.
This is not an isolated incident. De Arco had previously alerted authorities to threats and irregularities related to alleged corruption and fraudulent administration by private actors. His work as well as his prior complaints must be considered in any investigation into the motives behind this attempted assassination.

This case highlights the serious vulnerability faced by human rights defenders, who play an essential role in building democracy and peace in Colombia. The Colombian state must guarantee their lives and freedom to act without fear. We urgently call on the National Protection Unit (Unidad Nacional de Protección, UNP) to provide immediate and effective protection for De Arco, his family, and witnesses. We also urge the Attorney General’s Office to conduct a prompt and thorough investigation into the attack, ensuring that all potential motives related to his human rights work are examined and that those responsible are held accountable.

Eight Social and Religious Leaders’ Bodies Found in a Common Grave (Guaviare)

On July 2, authorities located the bodies of eight social and religious leaders in Calamar municipality, Guaviare Department. According to reports, these bodies belonged to Jesús Valero, Carlos Valero, Marivel Silva, Isaid Gómez, Maryuri Hérnandez, Óscar Hernández, James Caicedo, and Nixon Peñaloza Chacón. These are six men and two women who had disappeared in April 2025. According to Héctor Pardo, president of the Colombian Confederation of Religious Freedom, Conscience, and Worship, the victims were not pastors, but rather prominent members of the church: Nixon was the treasurer, Maryuri was a teacher, and James was a leading preacher.

The press reports that this group of persons moved to Guaviare from the conflictive region of Arauca after the pandemic. In Arauca and other parts of Northern Santander and the Colombo-Venezuelan border, an ELN guerrilla stronghold, the ELN is at war with the FARC guerrillas. According to Colombia’s Attorney General’s office, the dissident FARC of the Ivan Mordisco faction had called these persons to a meeting to interrogate them about their alleged links to the rival guerrilla group the ELN. Their families and the Colombian Congress had been calling for their liberation. This incident highlights the precarious conditions that social leaders are facing in areas where the guerrillas are fighting. It also shows a degradation of respect for international humanitarian norms and the guerrillas’ lack of respect for religious figures in the country. This is perhaps the worst case of an attack on evangelical Christians in Colombia. WOLA strongly condemns this attack, calls upon all the armed groups to respect the freedom of religion and religious leadership. The Colombian government must do everything it can to guarantee protection for religious leaders and bring those responsible for this crime to justice. We also call on U.S. officials to publicly condemn this crime and work with Colombia to improve the security of evangelicals in the country.

June 2025

Awa Indigenous Leader and His Bodyguards Murdered in Nariño
On June 3, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that three people were killed in the village of Cuaiquer Viejo in the municipality of Ricaurte, Nariño. The victims were Awa indigenous leader Luis Aurelio Araújo Hernández and his two bodyguards, who were attacked by heavily armed men. The men fired multiple shots at the victims and set the car assigned to Araújo Hernández by the National Protection Unit (UNP) on fire. In the early warning alert (08/23) issued by the Human Rights Ombudsman’s office, the entity warned that the Awa people in Ricaurte were at high risk of harm from the illegal armed groups present in this area.

Afro-Colombian and Indigenous Communities Trapped in the Chocó
Since June 5, at least ten Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities in the Alto Baudó River region of the Chocó department are at risk of harm by illegal armed groups. According to the Inter-Ethnic Forum Solidarity Chocó (Foro Interétnico Solidaridad Chocó, FISCH), the illegal armed groups internally displaced over thirty families (80 civilians) from Bellavista Dubas and Puerto Echeverry to Puerto Echeverry. The situation has some 1,280 persons, including 698 minors confined and unable to flee under distress and forced to endure the illegal armed groups. Anti-personnel landmines are partially to blame for the lack of freedom of mobility.

Three Persons Massacred in Valle del Cauca
On June 12, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that three persons were massacred (two men and a woman) in Pradera, located in the Valle del Cauca department. In this area, illegal armed groups are fighting for control of the territory.

LGBTQ Person Killed (La Guajira)
On June 15, Caribe Afirmativo reported the murder of Emy Brito in Riohacha, La Guajira department. According to their Human Rights Observatory, Emy constitutes the 45th LGBTQ+ person assassinated in Colombia. The murder occurred in a context where LGBTIQ+ persons are vulnerable due to discrimination, institutional exclusion, and impunity.

Disabled Social Leader Assassinated (Antioquia)
On June 16, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that a 17-year-old assassin killed Juan Camilo Espinoza Vanegas, social and political leader for the Indigenous Authorities in Colombia (AICO) of San Andres de Cuerquia, Antioquia department. Mr. Espinoza Vanegas was killed in Santa Cecilia, and the young assassin was captured by the police. This murder took place despite the early warning alert (AT 019/23) issued by the Human Rights Ombudsman’s office that highlights the risks faced by human rights defenders and social leaders in this part of Antioquia.

Four Massacred in the Naya River Area (Valle del Cauca)
On June 20, the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that four persons were murdered in Naya River, Buenaventura municipality, located in the Valle del Cauca department. INDEPAZ notes that Colombia’s Ombudsman’s Office has issued an early warning alert (AT 039/23), which states that civilians, social leaders, and others are at risk of harm by the illegal armed groups in five parts of Buenaventura. Four of them are in the rural areas and one is in the urban area. They include Northern and Southern/Central Rivers, the Beach area, and District 8 and the highway area. Action is required by the Colombian authorities to prevent other massacres from taking place in the Buenaventura Municipality.

Journalist and His Family Threatened with Death (Antioquia)
On June 24, Foundation for Press Freedom (La Fundación para la Libertad de Prensa, FLIP) reported that Andrés Campuzano, journalist with Cofradía para el Cambio, had received two death threats in April and in May for publishing information linking the Clan del Golfo to illegal mining in departments such as Chocó and Antioquia. The messages sent to his Instagram profile call Campuzano a guerrilla and threaten to kill him should he mention the Clan del Golfo in future reports. One of the messages included a menacing video of Campuzano with his son stating that the next photo would be of a funeral.

Afrodescendant Transwoman Killed in Buenaventura (Valle del Cauca)
On June 24, Caribe Afirmativo reported the murder of Jessy Beltrán in Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca department. Witnesses state that her murder took place in the Ciudadela San Antonio, however, details are not yet known.

Wiwa Indigenous Communities Caught in the Crossfire (La Guajira)
On June 24, the Organization Wiwa Yugumaium Bunkuanarrua Tayrona (OWYBT), the Center for Popular Research and Education (CINEP), the Colombian Commission of Jurists (CCJ) and the Jose Alvear Restrepo Lawyer Collective (CAJAR), and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) urged the Colombian authorities to implement the preventative measures the Colombian Human Rights Ombudsman’s office had ordered in 2023 for the Wiwa Indigenous People located in the Sierra Nevada of Santa Marta, La Guajira Department. Armed combat between the Conquerors of the Sierra Nevada Self-Defense Forces (Autodefensas Conquistadoras de la Sierra, ACSN) and the Gaitanist Army of Colombia (Ejército Gaitanista de Colombia, EGC/Clan del Golfo) has confined at least 400 Wiwa families to their territories. Another 20 families from Goamaka and La Mukura were internally displaced to Marokazo. Illegal armed groups killed 16-year-old Juan Nieves Daza and abducted a 15-year-old from the Manduwathukua community. The Human Rights Ombudsman’s office in La Guajira has reported an increase in illegal armed group activity since June, in addition to issuing an early warning in 2023.  Colombian authorities are urged to guarantee the protection of the Wiwa communities and provide them with the necessary humanitarian assistance required. Given that the ACSN is engaged in dialogue with the Colombian government, the issue of guaranteeing the implementation of international humanitarian law and not forcibly recruiting minors and attacking social leaders and civilians should be raised as a priority.

Mothers Human Rights Defenders Targeted by Misinformation Campaign (Norte de Santander)
On June 25, the Mothers for Peace in Catatumbo (Madres de Catatumbo por la Paz, MCP), a collective of internally displaced women, mothers of victims of the armed conflict, and human rights defenders, denounced a series of false and threatening messages published on the digital platform Impacto Catatumbo. These publications directly targeted the organization and its president, Carmen García, putting her safety and that of other women leaders and youth under their protection, at serious risk. The defamatory content seeks to delegitimize the association’s work defending the rights of women, children, and adolescents in the Catatumbo region, a territory heavily affected by conflict and state neglect. We urge the Attorney General’s Office to open an investigation into Impacto Catatumbo and ask the Colombian Government to guarantee, with effective measures, the immediate protection of the women and youth affected.

Afro-Colombian Women’s Organization’s Protection Vehicle Stolen (Cauca)
On June 25, the National Afro-Colombian Peace Council (Consejo Nacional de Paz Afrocolombiano, CONPA) reported the theft of the collective protection vehicle of the Association of Women of Northern Cauca (Asociación de Mujeres Afrodescendientes del Norte del Cauca, ASOM). The incident that occurred on June 24 threatens the safety of the organization’s peacebuilding work and the security of its leaders. This theft forms part of a broader pattern of harassment and intimidation perpetrated against Afro-Colombian leaders and organizations to make them fearful and abandon their advocacy efforts. ASOM, a long-time WOLA partner, consists of approximately 200 women. It is one of the 13 organizations that form part of the CONPA coalition. We urge Colombia’s National Protection Unit (UNP) to immediately replace the stolen vehicle and the Attorney General’s office to investigate this crime.

Indigenous Guard Leader Targeted in Armed Attack (Cauca)
On June 25, the Cauca Regional Indigenous Council (Consejo Regional Indígena del Cauca, CRIC) reported that armed men shot at and hit Estiven Torres, coordinator of the Indigenous Guard, Uh Wala Vxic, in Morales, Cauca. Torres was recently elected as a territorial authority. He was traveling with his National Protection Unit (UNP) issued security detail inside a UNP car when the attack took place. Torres survived with a gunshot wound. The CRIC notes that Torres managed to reach the police. However, they reportedly failed to assist him. He was later taken to the municipal hospital, where he received emergency medical care. This attack is further evidence of the need for the Colombian government to strengthen protection measures for the Indigenous leadership in Cauca. CRIC notes that the measures provided by the UNP are insufficient. They are not adequate for the level of risk faced by these leaders.

Female Campesino Leader Murdered in Corinto (Cauca)
The National Association of Campesinos (Asociación Nacional de Usuarios Campesinos, ANUC) reported that on June 27,  social leader Angie Leandra Henao Zambrano was killed by three heavily armed yet to be identified men while she was at her home, located in the El Silencio village, Corinto municipality, Cauca. Henao, a well-known leader and a single mother, leaves behind three children. According to the Institute for Development and Peace Studies (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ), the illegal armed groups operating in northern Cauca include FARC dissidents from the Yair Bermúdez Front 57 and the Dagoberto Ramos Front. Colombia’s Human Rights Ombudsman’s office issued an early warning (AT 019/24), where it states that social leaders are at imminent risk in this area.

Young Cultural Leader Killed in Jambaló (Cauca)

According to the Institute for the Study of Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y la Paz, INDEPAZ), William Ferney Pazú, a 23-year-old cultural leader was found dead on June 30 in the village of La Mina in the Jambaló indigenous reserve. William was leading the musical process kwesx fxiw (nuestras semillas), guiding children and youth in Vitoyó. INDEPAZ reports that William Ferney Pazú is the 21st social leader killed this year in Cauca and the 85th leader assassinated in Colombia in 2025.

The Colombian Human Rights Ombudsman’s Office issued Early Warning 019/24 for imminent risk in the municipalities of Caloto, Corinto, Jambaló, Miranda, and Toribío, as well as AT 005/23 due to the presence of the Dagoberto Ramos Front, a dissident structure of the former FARC-EP that uses Toribío as a key hub for its military and financial operations. Other illegal armed groups active in the area include the Yair Bermúdez Front 57. We call on Colombian authorities to promptly investigate this crime, identify and prosecute those responsible, and adopt urgent measures to protect Indigenous communities and leaders in Cauca.

May 2025

Illegal Armed Groups Threaten Personnel of the Land Restitution Unit
In May, Jaqueline Campos Rincón, the Secretary General of The Land Restitution Unit (URT), received a death threat pamphlet from the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia, where she is falsely labelled as a guerrilla. In this, she, along with her husband and children, is made a military target. This incident forms part of an effort to intimidate, harass, and scare Ms. Campos Rincón in order not to stop her from doing her work. Land usurpations, disputes, and the lack of formal titles by many victims remain a source of violence and conflict in Colombia. The work of the URT is precisely to address these situations. WOLA has worked closely with Ms. Campos Rincón. We urge Colombian authorities to provide her and her family adequate protection measures and the Attorney General to investigate and bring these perpetrators to justice.

Two Social Leaders Killed in Puerto Caicedo (Putumayo)
According to the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y Paz, INDEPAZ), two prominent social leaders from Puerto Caicedo were killed on May 1. Angel Arbey Vallejo, the president of Palmar de Picudito Hamlet, was found dead with his body showing the impact of gunshot wounds in his residence. Juan Carlos Rodriguez, social leader with the Communal Action Board of Circadia Hamlet and leader of chontaduro cultivation, was also assassinated. The circumstances that led to Rodriguez’s death are not yet known.

Veterans Rights Activist Attacked (Cundinamarca)
On May 1, the vehicle transporting veteran rights activist Alexander Chala Sáenz and his security team, from Bogotá to Facatativá, was attacked by men on a motorcycle who shot at the car. Mr. Sáenz had just participated in a march in support of the government’s proposal for a popular consultation. WOLA and the Colombia Acuerdo de Paz NGO strongly condemn this attack and urge the Colombian authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

Social Leaders in Barranquilla Threatened and Harassed (Atlantico)
On May 7, Communities Constructing Peace in Colombia (Comunidades Construyendo Paz en Colombia, Conpazcol) urged Colombian authorities to guarantee the protection and physical integrity of the leadership and members of the communities located in Las Nubes, Barranquilla. On May 2, two men on motorcycles stopped and told passersby, “You can continue; you are not the person we are after.” They did this at approximately 500 meters from the home of human rights defender and campesino leader Juan Evangelista Martinez. Since April 27, members of the community have reported that unknown men on motorcycles have been constantly riding around the community. On March 30, Aldair Mercado, the secretary of the ASOCAVNU association, was the target of a death threat. A woman appeared in Mercado’s home and stated, “You have two small children who have just started their lives, and you are young, don’t involve yourself in issues related to the school.” ASOCAVNU forms part of the Conpaz coalition.

Social Leader Killed in Tuluá (Valle del Cauca)
On May 7, the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the assassination of Jose Jesus Monsalve, social leader and joint communal action board president for Piadritas in Tuluá municipality, Valle del Cauca Department. Armed men showed up at his establishment and repeatedly fired shots at Monsalve. He was transported to the hospital, where he later died of his wounds.

Afro-Colombian and Indigenous Communities in Crisis (Chocó)
On May 7, the High Instance for Ethnic Peoples (IEANPE), established by the 2016 peace accord, alerted that at least 5,900 individuals from twenty-five Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities residing in the Lower Baudó River area of Chocó Department are facing confinement. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), ethnic individuals living along the Docampadó, Hijua, and Orpua rivers are unable to access food, education, and humanitarian assistance. Armed combat operations and the activities of illegal armed groups, including an armed strike, are restricting the freedom of movement for approximately 50,000 people. The Inter-Ethnic Solidarity Chocó Forum (FISCH) has issued an SOS for ethnic communities in Chocó, as thousands of individuals are facing internal displacement and confinement, hindering their ability to sustain themselves.

Massacre in Argelia (Valle del Cauca)
On May 8, the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the massacre of three persons in Argelia, Valle del Cauca Department.The perpetrators killed the victims, three youths, with a firearm in the El Crucero area.

Indigenous Kankuamos Facing Humanitarian Crisis (Cesar)
On May 9, the High Instance for Ethnic Peoples (IEANPE), set up by the 2016 peace accord, warned of a deteriorating humanitarian crisis in the Kankuamo Indigenous Reserve. The Kankuamo are at risk of losing their access to basic sustenance and basic services. At least 54 minors are facing internal displacement, and other persons are confined within the Minakamena community. While the Kankuamo leadership is engaging in dialogue with national and regional governmental entities, the situation remains far from resolved and requires immediate attention.

Indigenous Spiritual Leader Murdered (Cauca)
On May 11, the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarrollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported the murder of indigenous social and spiritual leader Teófilo Gonzalez Coqui in the Indigenous Cabildo of La Gaitana, Cauca Department. Gonzalez Coqui strongly defended his ancestral territory and was revered due to his spiritual wisdom.

Trade Unionist Killed in Valledupar (Cesar)
On April 29, armed assailants murdered trade unionist Walberto Quintero, vice president of the Sinaltrainal branch in Valledupar and vice president of the CUT–Cesar in a public establishment. According to President Gustavo Petro, the Gulf Clan (Clan del Golfo) is responsible for this heinous act. We join Sintrabiofilm in urging the Colombian authorities to investigate and bring the intellectual and material authors of this crime to justice.

Anti-Racism Afro-Colombian Activist Under Threat (Cundinamarca)
We join the House of Afro Thought (la Casa de Pensamiento Afro, CPA) in calling for the protection of Carlos Alberto Angulo Gongora and that Colombian authorities do their utmost to guarantee his right to exercise social leadership without harm. On May 1, CPA raised the alarm that Mr. Angulo Gongora is receiving death threats due to his activism.

Human Rights Group in Northern Santander Under Attack
On May 22, the Colombia-Europe-United States Coordination Network reported that the directors, associates, lawyers, and headquarters of the
Permanent Committee for the Defense of Human Rights, Norte de Santander Chapter (CPDH) have suffered new death threats, harassment, and
surveillance since January 2025. Since 2019, the CPDH has experienced death threats, accusations, harassment, and persecution. The homes of personnel of the organization and the Committee’s headquarters were broken into, and electronic equipment and magnetic or digital storage media were stolen. The group has been subjected to illegal raids and approaches by both armed groups and public officials. All these incidents were reported to the Colombian authorities, including the Attorney General’s office, with no tangible results. Colombian public and judicial authorities must work to guarantee protection for the CPDH members, their homes, and the organization’s headquarters. All these crimes should be investigated and perpetrators brought to justice.

Woman Searcher Killed (Huila)
On May 31, Lina Maria Puentes Vega, a woman searcher with The Network of Searchers “Tras las Huellas de la Vida,” was murdered in Baraya municipality located in the Huila department. She worked tirelessly to find her brothers, Jose Oswaldo Puentes Vega and Wilson Armando Puentes Vega, who disappeared. The Colombian Unit for the Search of Disappeared Persons laments this tragic incident and is calling for an investigation into this murder.

April 2025

Community Leader Assassinated in Santander
The Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that on April 3, armed men killed prominent community leader, Hemerson Reinel Perez, outside of his home in Puerto Wilches, Santander. Reinel Perez was the target of death threats from multiple armed groups –the Black Eagles, later the AGC, and more recently, the FARC dissidents. Social Leader Killed in North Santander According to the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarollo y Paz, INDEPAZ), armed men forced social leader Gumer Vargas out of his home and killed him on April 4. Gumer Vargas was a social leader involved in multiple community initiatives who had received death threats due to his work. His brother remains disappeared.

Transwoman Brutally Murdered in Hate Crime in Antioquia
On April 5, transwoman Sara Mirelley died of her injuries in a hospital after becoming the target of a brutal transphobic attack in Bello, Antioquia. A video of the assault captures her being beaten and thrown into a river. The aggressors broke her arms, threw her into the river, and told her to “swim.” According to Caribe Afirmativo, the climate for the LGBTQ+ community is violent, and in 2025 alone, 13 LGBTQ+ persons were in Antioquia.

On November 20, 2024, the Human Rights Ombudsman’s office expressed concern over the escalating violence against trans individuals. They specifically stated that between January and October 2024, their office “advised and handled 258 cases of bias-based violence against women, transgender men, and non-binary people. This reflects an increase of 29.6% compared to the same period in 2023 when it managed 199 cases.” They urged the government to take additional measures to protect trans individuals because “there is also evidence of increasing violence based on gender identity, particularly against transgender women, who endure the most psychological, physical, and sexual violence.”

Municipal Peace Leader Murdered in Arauca
The Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that on April 6, hitmen killed Jaime Enrique Benitez, social leader and President of the Municipal Peace Council, in Tame, Arauca.

March 2025

214 Female Social Leaders Killed Since 2016 Peace
According to the Justice and Dignity Corporation (Corporación Justicia y Dignidad), from the signing of the FARC peace accord in 2016 until March
7, 2025, 214 women social leaders have been murdered in Colombia. All these women were land and human rights defenders advocating for justice.
According to the NGO, the country accumulates political femicides, and the National Protection Unit (UNP) continues to be notable for its corruption and incompetence, leaving the leaders exposed to violence with measures that seem like a bad joke. The risk levels for women leaders are often deemed insufficiently high to warrant strong physical protection measures. They may receive a cell phone or panic button, which does little to protect them if an assailant approaches with a weapon. Alternatively, some women are provided with a bulletproof vest, which is akin to having a target sign on their chest. In March 2025, at least four female leaders were killed.

The Justice and Dignity Corporation highlights some recent victims. On March 20, Dianys Valderrama Tuberquia, a community leader, was stabbed 13 times in Carepa, Antioquia. On March 16, Diandra Natalia Zamora Henao, an Indigenous leader with the Women and Family Coordinator of the Association of Indigenous Authorities ASATRIMIG, was killed in Miraflores, Guaviare. On March 14, Leidy Hoyos, a teacher, and her husband were killed in Cauca, leaving their six-year-old child an orphan. On March 3, Ana Elcy Arteaga Camilo, president of the Community Action Board of the village of Pan de Azúcar, was murdered on the Pan-American Highway. On February 27, community leader Lucero Velázquez was shot by an assailant, who also injured her husband and son in Caldas.

Public Media System’s Journalists Suffer Physical, Verbal, and Cyber Attacks
Over the past months, journalists from the public media system, RTVC, have suffered numerous physical, verbal, and cyber-attacks, leading the Attorney General to open an investigation against some of the perpetrators. Hollman Morris, RTVC’s Manager’s X account, was hacked and blocked. Radionica’s social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, and X) were hacked before it transmitted the “Concert of Hope: Latin America in Solidarity.” RTVC News and other public media accounts were attacked, generating security concerns and jeopardizing the integrity of the information held in these accounts.

RTVC journalists faced physical attacks while covering opposition protests. Multiple reports indicate that protestors violently assaulted, pushed, and threatened journalists. During one march, assailants attempted to damage their recording equipment, necessitating the intervention of human rights personnel. On two occasions, Indigenous journalist Sandra Chindoy suffered racist attacks and received hateful comments and disparaging remarks about her ethnicity. These attacks occurred at the same time that high-profile right-wing politicians have discredited and spread false information about the media system.

Massacre in Cauca Kills Afro-Colombian Leader
On March 12, the Institute of Studies for Development and Peace (Instituto de Estudios para el Desarollo y Paz, INDEPAZ) reported that Neisair Ramos Navas’ was shot at when his vehicle was intercepted by armed men. The attack killed Niesair, Sharick Marcoli González Abonia, and 14-year-old Sharon Macolí Gonzales Abonía. Vice President Francia Marquez condemned this attack against Neisar, a social leader who co-founded Guachené, Cauca. Marquez noted that Sharon was the niece of the Mayor of Guachene, Elmer Abonía, who was murdered in December 2023.