WOLA Reiterates Call to Protect Colombia’s Democratic Process

The Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA) is deeply concerned by the growing signs of electoral intolerance in Colombia following the first round of the presidential elections particularly considering the country’s complex security challenges. The combination of political violence, increasing political polarization, and the continued presence of illegal armed groups creates a troubling environment that risks reviving the cycles of violence that marked the country prior to the 2016 peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC).  

Since the first round of voting, we have received reports of intimidation, harassment, threats, and other acts of aggression targeting individuals who are campaigning for, supporting, or intending to vote for either of the remaining candidates. These incidents undermine democratic participation and threaten the integrity of the electoral process.  

We, therefore, renew our call to the international community, including U.S policymakers, to support Colombia’s democratic institutions and the realization of free, fair, and peaceful elections. International actors should refrain from statements or actions that could be perceived as favoring one candidate over another. Candidates, politicians, civil society, and the press should avoid further polarization and call for calm and respect. Colombians must be able to exercise their right to choose their next president free from fear, coercion, manipulation, violence, and external interference.  

The United States government should be prepared to engage constructively with whichever candidate is elected by the Colombian people and continue supporting Colombia’s democratic stability and long-term peace.