S/PV.9961 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representative of Colombia to participate in this meeting. On behalf of the Council, I welcome His Excellency Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Colombia. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Colombia and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, to participate in this meeting. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2025/419, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia. I now give the floor to Mr. Ruiz Massieu.

I thank the President and the members of the Council for the opportunity to address them once again on the peace process in Colombia. It is an honour to be here alongside the Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Colombia, Mr. Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, and I would like to reiterate my appreciation to the Government of Colombia for its continued support and cooperation with the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia. I also welcome the presence today of the President of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, Mr. Alejandro Ramelli Arteaga, who is here with us in the Chamber. I am pleased that he and other judges had the opportunity this week to engage in dialogue with Member States on the crucial work being carried out by this court. I further welcome the presence of the former Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ms. María Ángela Holguín Cuéllar, who played a key role in achieving the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, which we continue to monitor and verify. (spoke in English) For more than six years, it has been my privilege to work closely with Colombians deeply committed to peace, and I would like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the important steps taken to move forward in this historic undertaking. The 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace set out the path to be followed: a holistic and comprehensive road map for addressing deep-rooted structural issues that have fuelled violence in Colombia for decades. During the early years of implementation, significant foundations were laid and should be further built upon. More than 13,000 former combatants of the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia-Ejército del Pueblo (FARC-EP) who laid The Council has witnessed first-hand, during its visits to Colombia, their drive to establish sustainable livelihoods in coexistence with communities that suffered during the conflict. Ensuring their successful transition to civilian life is central to the success of the Agreement and any future agreements; it will demand continued attention to needs such as land, housing and, certainly, security. Necessary State investments and reforms under the Agreement, aimed at uplifting and transforming rural Colombia, have also been initiated, beginning with the establishment of the development programmes with a territorial focus, and have continued, more recently, with notable progress in expanding access to land and resolving land disputes. In addition, the Agreement charts out policies to ensure increased attention to Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities, along with mechanisms for greater participation by women. In each case, much still needs to be done to translate commitments into reality. Very importantly, Colombians also embarked on a complex journey to come to terms with the past. The Commission for the Clarification of Truth, Coexistence and Non-Repetition rendered a historic report and recommendations; a long-term search for the disappeared has begun; and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, a pioneering court for transitional justice, was established, has issued historic indictments and stands today on the verge of a crucial new phase of its work. We look forward to the imminent issuance of its first sentences, which will be crucial for delivering reparation to the victims and advancing reconciliation. The Mission has been engaging with stakeholders in the transitional justice process and is poised to play its role, as mandated by the Council, in monitoring the implementation of the sentences. Some of the changes under way in Colombia are not strictly measurable in terms of the implementation of the Agreement. The peace process has contributed decisively to the opening of political space in the country. Colombian citizens are exercising their rights to participate as never before, and there is a widespread rejection of political violence. Notwithstanding the undeniable progress made to date, the implementation of the Agreement continues to face several serious challenges that impede the consolidation of lasting peace. Chief among them is the limited presence of civilian and military State institutions in various regions of the country, where peace dividends remain limited and violence unfortunately persists. While Colombia’s complex geography presents obstacles, an expanded and sustained State presence remains essential and can be realized through clear, coordinated and robust strategies. It is precisely in this vacuum of State presence that armed groups proliferate and illicit economies thrive, fuelling violence and hampering development in conflict-affected areas. The Agreement provides instruments for addressing those issues across its different chapters in a comprehensive way. However, only by accelerating implementation can we obtain accelerated results. (spoke in Spanish) Colombia today is a very different country from what it was in the years leading up to the signing of the peace agreement. Indicators of violence remain below the levels recorded during the height of the conflict. However, during my time in Colombia, I have witnessed how the scourge of violence continues to profoundly affect the lives of entire communities, former combatants and social and political leaders. A total of 474 signatories to the peace agreement have been killed since 2016. Sadly, four The attack on Senator and presidential pre-candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay on 7 June was not only a serious and deplorable act but also had a profound impact on Colombian society. It evoked memories of past episodes of political violence and underscored, more urgently than ever, the imperative to remove violence from political life — a core objective of the peace agreement. In response, the Ombudsman’s Office, with the support of the Episcopal Conference and the backing of national institutions and representatives of the international community, including the Verification Mission, convened political leaders, parties and movements to endorse a series of commitments for a peaceful electoral process. I trust that this pact will be widely accepted and strictly implemented. As I have previously emphasized, the transformative nature of the peace agreement lies largely in its comprehensive response to the complex challenges faced by different regions of Colombia. It is therefore essential to fully seize the opportunities that the Agreement offers for the country’s future and to build on the progress achieved so far by allocating the necessary resources and ensuring coordination among all responsible entities. Those achievements are the result of successive Administrations of varying political orientations, the unwavering commitment of the other signatory party and the broad participation of civil society. This is a historic legacy designed for the lasting benefit of the entire nation. Therefore, as the country enters an electoral period that may deepen political divisions, I reiterate the Secretary-General’s call for Colombians to continue advancing the peace process in a spirit of cooperation. In the coming months, the Special Jurisdiction for Peace  — the judicial component of the system — will issue its first sentences, marking a turning point that will test the delicate balances reached by the parties. Those reflect the former adversaries’ willingness to end the war, their shared recognition of the importance of accountability for the gravest crimes and their commitment to contributing to victims’ reparation. In Colombia, there are differing views on how to achieve peace. At the same time, I can attest that all Colombians aspire to consolidate it. That is what I have observed over the past six years, and I am confident that peace will remain a central issue on the public agenda. In addition to implementing the peace agreement, the pursuit of peace in recent years has included dialogue processes with multiple armed groups aimed at ending, or at least significantly reducing, violence. Following the fragmentation of several of those groups, the dialogues have shifted from a national focus to more locally oriented discussions. It is essential that those initiatives demonstrate a clear commitment to peace by the armed actors involved and that they focus on achieving concrete outcomes, particularly tangible benefits for communities affected by the conflict. (spoke in English) In their pursuit of peace, Colombians have a deeply rooted history of resilience and persistence. Sometimes, their efforts have not yielded the expected results; other times, thanks to patience and perseverance, they have achieved significant progress. The 2016 peace agreement is a striking example of that. The path to peace is never easy, nor is it free of obstacles, but staying the course is always worthwhile. I am deeply grateful to the Security Council for its consistent and crucial support for Colombia and for the work of the United Nations Verification Mission. The Council’s unity has been instrumental in safeguarding and advancing the peace agreement. I am convinced that the Mission’s role in fostering trust and encouraging further progress will remain just as important in the period ahead. I also extend my sincere thanks to the Government of Colombia and to the former FARC-EP members for the trust they have placed in the Mission and my admiration to Colombian society at large for walking this path with dignity, determination and a deep commitment to peace. I am profoundly thankful to the Secretary-General for entrusting me with this opportunity and to all the personnel in the Verification Mission for their hard work and unwavering dedication.

I thank Mr. Ruiz Massieu for his briefing and for his outstanding contribution to the cause of peace in Colombia. I now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements. Dame Barbara Woodward (United Kingdom): I would like to begin by thanking Special Representative Ruiz Massieu for his briefing today and, echoing your words, Mr. President, for his outstanding contribution to the cause of peace in Colombia and for the work of his team. I also welcome Vice-Minister Jaramillo Jassir to this Chamber. The United Kingdom remains committed to the implementation of the 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace as the main vehicle for achieving lasting peace in Colombia. I would also like to welcome the Colombian Government’s announcement, in June, of the comprehensive protection programme as a measure to address the increasing levels of violence across the country, including the assassination attempt on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay on 7 June. I join others in wishing him a full and speedy recovery. During the reporting period, nine signatories were killed, bringing the total to 469 since the Agreement was signed. Those attacks, often deliberately targeting those who are committed to peace and societal change, underline the urgent need to implement the comprehensive protection programme and to adopt stronger protection measures. As Special Representative Ruiz Massieu reminded us, transitional justice remains a critical component of the 2016 Agreement, as we also witnessed during our visit last year. Colombians need to see restorative justice in action. We therefore encourage the Special Jurisdiction for Peace to maintain the pace of sentencing, and the Government to ensure that complementary actions advance in parallel. We welcome the presence in this Chamber of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace and its President, Mr. Alejandro Ramelli Arteaga. We understand that the Jurisdiction will shortly issue sentences under two macro-cases. That would represent a significant advance in its work. As Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ruiz Massieu reminded us, that is essential to maintain the trust of the victims, the signatories and the Colombian people. Finally, as the Government enters its final year in office, and with elections approaching, we urge it to prioritize the implementation of the Agreement and to We welcome the May meeting of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement, in which the parties agreed on an action plan for the remainder of the year. We commend efforts to strengthen institutional coordination and support civil society. Convening the institutional structures of the Agreement is key to sustaining peace efforts, particularly as Colombia transitions into its electoral period. The United Kingdom is, and will remain, a key partner on the path to sustainable peace in Colombia.

At the outset, let me take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy Nelson Mandela International Day. In the Security Council, in which United Nations Member States have entrusted us with the solemn responsibility of maintaining international peace and security, may we continue our endeavours with resolve, purpose and the enduring spirit of justice and humanity which Nelson Mandela embodied. I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council, namely, Algeria, Somalia and my own country, Sierra Leone, as well as Guyana (A3+). We thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Carlos Ruiz Massieu for his briefing and commend him and the team of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia for their dedicated efforts to promote peace and stability in Colombia. We congratulate him on his new appointment and wish him all the best in his new role in Haiti. We welcome the participation of His Excellency Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Colombia, in today’s meeting. The A3+ commends the people and the Government of Colombia for their dedication to implementing the 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace. Their determination to build lasting peace after years of armed conflict is genuinely admirable. Those efforts require unity and cooperation at all levels, as well as continued support from the international community. Despite the numerous challenges that threaten to hinder the implementation of the Agreement, we remain confident that the Agreement provides a solid foundation for lasting peace in Colombia. We acknowledge that progress has been made in reducing violence, promoting political dialogue and ensuring justice. The demonstrated political commitment remains commendable; however, it must now evolve into an accelerated implementation process that delivers tangible results and meaningful outcomes, especially as the country enters a critical period of elections, which might exacerbate political tensions and divisions. The A3+ welcomes the 8 May session of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement and its four-month action plan, which we believe will enhance joint monitoring and coordination across all chapters of the Agreement. This collaborative oversight is indispensable, as implementation remains uneven and critical gaps persist. We appreciate the Government’s ongoing commitment to prioritizing rural reform, promoting socioeconomic growth and tackling illegal economies. Nevertheless, we are concerned that limited institutional capacity, poor coordination, cumbersome The A3+ welcomes the fact that the Government of Colombia continues to prioritize rural reform. As indicated in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2025/419), land formalization stood at approximately 3.3 million hectares as of May 2025, representing 47 per cent of the 7 million hectares committed under the Final Agreement. However, we remain concerned that only 7 per cent of the land-allocation targets for the landless population has been achieved, and that administrative and judicial backlogs, slow implementation and ongoing security concerns continue to pose significant challenges to land restitution for conflict-affected families. We call on the Government of Colombia to accelerate the rural reform process and to enhance coordinated efforts across multiple sectors, which are essential to accelerate the implementation of the 16 national plans for rural reform. The A3+ welcomes the near completion of reintegration plans for almost all former combatants. Despite encouraging progress in the reintegration process, with the former combatants having designed their reintegration plan, we call on the Government of Colombia and State parties to provide the necessary support to ensure their safe and sustainable transition to civilian life. We welcome the Government’s plans and its ongoing collaboration with partner agencies. While the A3+ welcomes the new comprehensive protection programme for former combatants, violence in conflict-affected regions remains alarming. Civilians still face attacks, and clashes between armed groups persist. We therefore urge those groups to cease all threats and violence, and we call on the Government to ensure a strong State presence, along with more effective prevention and protection measures in vulnerable communities, especially in the affected regions. We also call on the Government to fully implement the security guarantees outlined in the Final Agreement. The A3+ commends the continued efforts of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace. We look forward to the much-anticipated restorative sentences expected in the second half of 2025. That will be a significant milestone in Colombia’s transitional justice process. We urge full cooperation by all parties and the provision of adequate resources to transform those sentences into restorative measures that support victims and foster reconciliation, while ensuring robust protection and legal certainty for all, under the mandate of the Special Jurisdiction. We condemn the surge in violence against communities, social leaders, former combatants and political figures — most recently the attack on Senator and presidential aspirant Miguel Uribe Turbay — and the continued clashes between the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), the Estado Mayor de los Bloques y Frentes and other illegal armed groups. We remain concerned that the negotiations between the Colombian Government and the ELN are on hold and urge both sides to resume peace talks. We encourage more efforts to seek peace through dialogue with other armed groups and the prioritization of those discussions to put an end to the violence and alleviate the suffering of the Colombian population, including holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. The A3+ continues to express grave concern about the slow progress and implementation of the ethnic chapter, and the limited roll-out of a programme to strengthen the self-protection mechanisms of ethnic communities. The ethnic chapter is pivotal to the peace agreement, safeguarding the rights of Afro-Colombian and Indigenous communities and addressing the challenges they face. While noting some progress and improved coordination, we wish to reiterate our call for enhanced The A3+ strongly condemns the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict, an unequivocal breach of international law. We urge all armed groups to release every child immediately and call on the Government to intensify its efforts to prevent further recruitment across Colombia. We further urge the Government of Colombia and all stakeholders to bolster security measures, dismantle illegal economies, uphold justice and protect every community affected by this grave concern. We acknowledge the significant progress made in implementing the gender provisions of the Final Agreement and urge continued progress to increase the representation of women in peace dialogues and leadership roles, which are crucial for fostering lasting peace and stability. The A3+further calls on the Government to address the constitutional challenges related to the delay in the functioning of the Ministry of Equality, which is vital for implementing resolution 1325 (2000), the peace agreement’s gender provisions and its ethnic chapter. In conclusion, the A3+ reaffirms its support to the Government and people of Colombia in their pursuit of stability and lasting peace. We commend the support of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia to the peace process in the country. We urge all stakeholders to strengthen their commitment and collaboration towards the full implementation of the peace agreement.

I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) Carlos Ruiz Massieu for his briefing. Over the past six years, under his leadership, the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia has played an important role in supporting the Colombian peace process. China commends SRSG Massieu for his work and looks forward to his even greater achievements in his new capacity as SRSG for Haiti. I welcome Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir to today’s meeting and congratulate Colombia on its election as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2026–2027 term. The Colombian peace process is a successful example of ending conflict and rebuilding peace through dialogue and negotiation. At present, as the Colombian peace process has entered uncharted waters, relevant parties should firm up the resolve to overcome difficulties and steadfastly advance the peace process for the country’s stability and development. I would like to make a few points. First, as noted in the Secretary-General’s report (S/2025/419), the peace agreement remains an effective road map for peace consolidation in Colombia, and achieving peace is in the interests of all Colombian parties. China supports President Petro’s decision to prioritize implementation of the peace agreement in the remainder of his term. We welcome the recent formulation of the 2025 action plan for the implementation of the peace agreement by the Government, which clarifies priorities in different sectors. We look forward to the issuance by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace of its first restorative sentence at an early date and to its active role in achieving justice and promoting peace and reconciliation. Secondly, comprehensive rural reform is a priority for implementing the peace agreement, as well as an important pillar for Colombia’s national development. At present, with the average implementation rate standing at only 30 per cent, rural reform progress is lagging. China encourages the Colombian Government to increase resource allocation, strengthen coordination, accelerate rural reform and continuously unlock development dividends. China welcomes Colombia’s Thirdly, Colombia’s presidential election is approaching. We hope that all parties in Colombia prioritize the well-being of the people, cherish and safeguard the hard- won peace and avoid relapse into political violence. Regarding the recent violent conflict in some regions, we support the Colombian Government in strengthening security deployment, enhancing effective control over conflict-affected and remote areas, ensuring the safety and security of the people, including former combatants, ethnic minorities, women, children and other vulnerable groups, and preventing the recurrence of such violent incidents. The fourth ministerial meeting of the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) Forum was held in Beijing in May. It adopted a Beijing declaration and a joint action plan for 2025–2027. At the meeting, President Xi Jinping expressed China’s readiness to join hands with Latin American and Caribbean partners to launch five programmes, in the areas of solidarity, development, civilization, peace and people-to-people connectivity, to advance shared development and revitalization and contribute to a China and Latin American and Caribbean community with a shared future. The participating Latin American and Caribbean countries commended the fruitful outcomes of the meeting. Colombia, as the CELAC rotating President, made an important contribution to the success of the meeting. Guided by the consensus reached by Chinese and Latin American and Caribbean leaders, China stands ready to strengthen cooperation with Latin American and Caribbean countries, including Colombia, in our efforts to build a China- Latin American and Caribbean community with a shared future to make positive contributions to world peace and development.

We take this opportunity not only to greet His Excellency Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Colombia, but also to congratulate our neighbouring country on its election as a member of the Security Council for the biennium 2026–2027. We thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Colombia, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, for the presentation of the report (S/2025/419) and express our appreciation for the outstanding work he has carried out at the helm of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and for the progress and achievements in that work. Furthermore, we extend our sincerest congratulations on his recent appointment as the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). We wish him every success in this new responsibility and reiterate our willingness to continue working closely with him on this issue of high priority for Panama and the region. Undoubtedly, we are facing a complex scenario, which unfortunately has been marked by the regrettable assassination attempt on senator and presidential aspirant Miguel Uribe Turbay. Panama joins the rejection expressed by the Colombian people in condemning such violence and condemns, as it has done in various forums, all forms of political violence and calls for the necessary investigations to bring each and every responsible party to justice. In this regard, we welcome initiatives such as the meeting of high- level State authorities led by the Episcopal Conference of Colombia. That forum issued a fitting joint commitment by the presidencies of all branches and major institutions of the Colombian State to reject all forms of political violence. We are Regarding the humanitarian situation, we express our solidarity with the more than 168,000 people affected by the crisis in Catatumbo since January and the more than 98,000 individuals who remain in confinement in the country. We also regret the various armed strikes that have continued to disrupt the lives of thousands of people in different regions. This reality serves as a call to redouble efforts to advance the comprehensive implementation of the peace agreement, particularly in areas most affected by the conflict. In this respect, we welcome the launch of the Pact for Catatumbo as a positive demonstration of institutional commitment to these regions. On another note, Panama remains deeply concerned about the situation of social leaders, signatories of the peace agreement and human rights defenders, who unfortunately continue to be targets of violence. Just a few weeks ago, we witnessed the discovery of a mass grave in Guaviare, where the remains of eight social and religious leaders were found. Nevertheless, we commend institutional efforts, such as the strengthening of investigative methodologies by the national Office of the Attorney General and the work of the Special Investigation Unit, established under the peace agreement to address such crimes. Colombia has achieved historic progress through renewed momentum for innovative transitional justice mechanisms, as exemplified by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace. These accomplishments are not insignificant. On the contrary, they are important and represent a model of hope for Colombia and the world and as a source of inspiration for those still seeking paths toward reconciliation. We highlight as a significant milestone the public verification hearings conducted by the Peace Tribunal of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, both in Case 01 on kidnappings and Case 03 on extrajudicial executions. We thank the President of the Tribunal, Mr. Alejandro Ramelli Arteaga, who is with us in the Chamber, and we congratulate him on his leadership in that commendable judicial investigation. For Panama, the restorative justice promoted by the peace agreement and the Special Jurisdiction for Peace represents a unique contribution among transitional justice mechanisms. We firmly believe that its victim-centred and reparative approach, particularly whereby perpetrators directly confront their victims, acknowledge their responsibility and contribute to their restoration, holds the potential to repair the social fabric and pave the way towards lasting peace. This experience of human sensitivity offers a path of hope for other actors in conflicts in other regions who can look into this mirror and understand and see the distillation of the lessons of it. Therefore, the restorative sentences scheduled for the second half of 2025 represent a crucial milestone in consolidating the Comprehensive System of Truth, Justice, Reparations and Non-Repetition, and above all, in Colombia’s challenging and commendable journey toward reconciliation. Regarding the gender perspective, we acknowledge the existing progress and echo the calls of women’s organizations, which continue to demand stronger implementation of the agreement’s provisions. Consistent with our stance expressed in the Council, we particularly emphasize the inclusion of women in dialogue and implementation processes. Furthermore, we highlight the convening of the first session this year of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement, a key forum for dialogue between the signatory parties, the continuity and strengthening of which remain essential to ensuring sustained and coordinated implementation of the agreement. Colombia continues to serve as a courageous example of how to address a prolonged conflict through dialogue. It is precisely in the face of complex scenarios

I would like to thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) Carlos Ruiz Massieu for his informative briefing and for his tireless work throughout his term as SRSG for Colombia. I also welcome the presence of the Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs of Colombia, Mr. Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir. Let me also to congratulate Colombia on its recent election to the Security Council. We are looking forward to furthering our cooperation in support of international law, the Charter of the United Nations and the peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue. Indeed, Colombia stands as a role model of how dialogue between conflicting parties can be effectively utilized to reach negotiated agreements on complex problems. In view of that, I would like to make the following three points: First, we commend Colombian authorities for the progress in the implementation of the peace agreement during the reporting period, particularly on rural reform, and the reintegration of ex-combatants, 95 per cent of whom have completed their individual reintegration plans. We encourage the Colombian Government to further accelerate implementation of the agreement in its remaining year in office, focusing especially on providing security guarantees and extending State presence in violence-affected regions. The progress in transitional justice, as highlighted also by the SRSG, is noteworthy, with the first restorative sentences expected to be issued by the end of the year. We are confident that the Special Jurisdiction for Peace will adhere to its timelines and that the Colombian Government will ensure that conditions are in place for the implementation of the sentences. Secondly, we remain concerned about the disproportionate effect of violence on Afro-Colombian and Indigenous populations, who are caught in the crossfire of conflicts between illegal groups, vying for territorial control and benefits from illicit economies. We call for the full implementation of the ethnic chapter of the agreement, which will also have a considerable impact on the living conditions of indigenous children and children of African descent. The data from the latest annual report of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict (A/HRC/58/18) are indeed alarming. Armed groups in Colombia must immediately cease the recruitment of children, their killing or maiming and all acts of sexual violence against them. Thirdly, as Colombia enters its election period, we call for a peaceful electoral process, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women and free from political violence. In this context, we condemn in the strongest terms the assassination attempt on the presidential pre-candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay, in June. We wish him a full recovery, and we call for a thorough investigation of the incident and accountability for the perpetrators, hoping that this remains an isolated event. In conclusion, Greece reiterates its unwavering support to the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and appreciates the good offices it provides in promoting the effective implementation of the peace agreement. We remain committed to a Colombian-led and Colombian-owned peace process that will also address reconciliation issues and stand ready to further cooperate with Colombia and fellow Council members to this effect.

Like others, I would like to thank Special Representative Ruiz Massieu for his briefing and extraordinary service to the people of Colombia for The full implementation of the 2016 peace agreement is essential to achieve lasting and sustainable peace in Colombia. Denmark welcomes the important steps taken by the Colombian Government to implement the agreement to date, with notable efforts on rural reform. We strongly urge an accelerated and concentrated effort to drive implementation forward for the benefit of the Colombian people. Allow me to focus on three key areas. First, violence continues to be the existential threat to Colombia’s peace process. The assassination attempt on Senator Uribe Turbay was a stark recall of past political violence, which must be condemned in the strongest terms. Violence in conflict- affected regions remains a grave concern, with continued targeting of former combatants. We strongly urge the Colombian Government to strengthen security by expanding its State presence to conflict-affected areas, combat illicit economies and promote justice and accountability for all affected communities. Denmark welcomes the convening of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement, and the agreement by parties on an action plan for the remainder of 2025. Securing adequate and sustained funding for implementation also remains critical. Secondly, the protection of children in Colombia must be prioritized. Children continue to suffer grave violations of their rights, including sexual and gender-based violence, killing and maiming, as highlighted in the latest Secretary-General’s report on children and armed conflict (S/2025/247). The increased recruitment of children by armed groups is particularly alarming and disproportionately affects Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities. We call on the Government to scale up child protection and security measures in rural areas to fully implement the ethnic chapter. The protection of children must be considered in all negotiations or agreed outcomes between the State and armed groups. Thirdly, truth, justice and reconciliation are essential to ensure an enduring peace in Colombia. The Special Jurisdiction for Peace holds the crucial responsibility to deliver transitional justice to victims of the conflict. We underscore the urgency for the Special Jurisdiction for Peace to accelerate its work and advance on the issuance of its first restorative sentences. Legal certainty for individuals under the Special Jurisdiction’s jurisdiction is long overdue. Now is the time to hold to account those responsible for the most serious human rights violations. Further delays will only undermine the progress made. Equally crucial is the Government’s robust and timely support to ensure conditions are in place for the implementation of these rulings. This includes the financing of restorative projects and establishment of security and living conditions for sentenced individuals. In closing, as Colombia enters a pre-electoral period, it is critical that political tensions are lowered and inclusive political participation is prioritized. Full implementation of the 2016 agreement remains the only road map to bring sustainable peace to Colombia. The work of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia remains essential in this regard, and Denmark extends its full support to the Mission.

I will start by adding my thanks to the Special Representative of the Secretary-General (SRSG) Ruiz Massieu for his briefing. We look forward to continuing our work together in his capacity as SRSG of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). The United States supports peace and stability in Colombia and justice for the many victims of years of vicious narco-terrorism. Yet, establishing a real and lasting peace still remains out of reach. While advancements continue in some areas, errant I would like to make three points. First, the escalation of violence from illegal armed groups deeply concerns the United States, especially as upticks in violence pertain to Colombia’s domestic election cycle. The United States condemns in the strongest possible terms all forms of political violence. Violent political rhetoric and polarization directly threaten peace and stability. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay as he continues to fight for his life, following the vile assassination attempt against him. While the end of the state of emergency in the Catatumbo region is a positive step forward, escalating violence in conflict-affected regions remains of grave concern. The United States condemns the increasing violence. We are concerned that, instead of reducing violence, the Colombian Government’s disorganized rush to negotiate with a multitude of armed groups has in fact created perverse incentives for these groups to ramp up their attacks in an effort to improve their negotiating position. Secondly, the lack of coordination across the Government of Colombia with the conflict-affected communities completely undermines the peace process. In particular, the lack of State presence impedes progress on rural security that is necessary for a safe, just and prosperous future. These challenges further impede achieving sustained peace in Colombia. The limited progress made against narco-groups combined with appeasement policies have eroded the hard-fought security successes of the past decades. The continued failure of certain parts of the Colombian Government to act further endangers Colombians and threatens to plunge the country back into conflict. Therefore, “total peace” has yet to yield tangible results. Thirdly, the politicizing of any peace process is a threat to sustained progress on such a front. The shielding of criminals for political purposes undermines all prospects of lasting peace. Victims deserve justice. Colombia’s current path to peace faces critical obstacles. We continue to urge the Colombian Government to strengthen its resolve and to encourage efforts by Colombians to build livelihoods away from violence. The United States will continue to call on the Government of Colombia to reject impunity for criminals and stand by the countless victims of decades of deadly terrorism as Colombians seek to achieve lasting peace and security in Colombia.

I thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for his briefing and express my appreciation for his dedication and leadership of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia in recent years. I also wish to convey my best wishes to Mr. Ruiz Massieu in his new role as Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH). It is also my pleasure to welcome Vice-Minister Jaramillo Jassir to today’s meeting. Let me begin by acknowledging the continued political commitment of the signatory parties to the implementation of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace and to addressing the root causes of the conflict in Colombia. We encourage the Colombian Government to use the remainder of the time frame to prioritize the implementation of the Agreement, including by securing adequate funding, and to advance dialogues with armed groups willing to commit to peace and to the protection of civilians. In particular, we call on the Government to adopt the measures necessary to create the conditions for the smooth and unimpeded implementation of the restorative sentences to be delivered by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace. These sentences, some of which are expected imminently, will mark a pivotal step in a model of transitional justice, As evidenced by recent events, the lack of security guarantees in the upcoming electoral process poses a legitimate concern. We commend party leaders who have shown unity in strongly condemning political violence, and we call for a full investigation to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. We take this opportunity to remind actors across the political spectrum that eliminating violence from politics and promoting inclusive political participation remain central objectives of the Agreement. To this end, the adoption of measures to prevent violence against women in politics is commendable. However, we reiterate our call on the Government to strengthen women’s full, equal, safe and meaningful participation in all relevant decision-making processes. Finally, we believe that ensuring the security of communities is a vital step towards achieving peace. Let me underline Slovenia’s utmost concern regarding the toll on civilians caused by fighting between non-State armed groups and the alarming increase in the recruitment and use of children by these groups. Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities, former combatants, social leaders and human rights defenders continue to bear the brunt of insecurity and must receive special protection. Let me conclude by stressing that international humanitarian law, with the protection of civilians at its core, must be upheld at all times by all actors and actively promoted by the Government in its dialogue with armed groups.

At the outset, I thank Special Representative of the Secretary-General Ruiz Massieu for his comprehensive briefing today. I also welcome the presence of Vice-Minister Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir. In particular, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Special Representative Ruiz Massieu for his outstanding leadership and invaluable contributions to Colombia’s peace process throughout his tenure. As he takes on his new responsibilities as Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Haiti, my delegation wishes him every success and trusts that the wealth of experience that he has gained in Colombia will continue to bring tangible results in his new role. Despite the Colombian Government’s continued determination and efforts to achieve lasting peace, Colombia’s path to peace continues to confront challenges in the face of a series of major acts of violence. Following the Catatumbo incident in January, violence against a political figure in June posed a direct threat to the country’s democracy. To help advance the peace process and support Colombia’s efforts to overcome the challenges that it faces, my delegation wishes to highlight the following three points today. First, my delegation strongly condemns the recent assassination attempt against Senator and presidential hopeful Miguel Uribe Turbay and calls for a full investigation to identify and hold accountable all those responsible. The use of violence to influence the political process must not be allowed to recur, as no democracy can thrive when intimidation and fear replace free political participation. Ending political violence is, therefore, not only a matter of justice, but a precondition for durable peace and a stable democracy. In addition to holding those responsible to account, it is essential that the country unites on the path towards a lasting and inclusive peace, rather than retreating into division. In that regard, we welcome the initiatives to promote cross-party commitments to non-violence, including the Commitment to a Free and Peaceful Electoral Process in Colombia, endorsed by more than 80 political, social and institutional actors. Lastly, we welcome the progress made in transitional justice by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, including the initiation of verification hearings as the final step before sentencing, and we look forward to the issuance of the first restorative sentences soon. As an innovative judicial model, Colombia’s transitional justice seeks to uncover buried truths, promote the acknowledgement of responsibility and provide perpetrators with an opportunity to express genuine remorse and seek forgiveness from victims. The value of this victim-centred approach lies in its ability to foster healing and reconciliation while advancing accountability that goes beyond retribution. My delegation therefore hopes that the forthcoming sentences will meet the expectations of victims in achieving truth, justice, reparations and non-recurrence, while also offering peace signatories a sufficient degree of legal certainty. As a long-standing strategic cooperative partner of Colombia, Korea remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting Colombia’s ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable peace alongside the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and the international community.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Special Representative, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, for his briefing. France is grateful for the work he has done in Colombia and assures him of our full support in his next role in Haiti. I also welcome the presence of Colombia’s Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs, His Excellency Mr. Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, and we congratulate Colombia on its election to the Security Council next year. It is fitting that this meeting on national reconciliation is taking place on this auspicious day, on which we pay tribute to Nelson Mandela. First, the Council’s follow-up of the situation in Colombia is an example of success that we should preserve. The process in Colombia, initiated by the 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, is a model of crisis resolution. The progress achieved in that context, thanks to the shared willingness of the parties and the support provided by the Council through our assistance to the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and the Special Representative, is commendable. The Mission should be able to continue to play its role of providing advice, support and impetus. We must be even more vigilant as the election period begins and the fight against political violence remains a key challenge for the success of the peace process. On behalf of France, I pay tribute to so many leaders who have fallen in that very struggle for peace. France will continue to work with all partners to maintain the Council’s engagement. In this regard, I would like to highlight three focus areas, as the State’s authority is gradually being re-established throughout the country. First, we must ensure respect for human rights and the protection of populations from violence. Armed groups must stop their violent actions. It is imperative to support the Colombian Government’s efforts to protect former combatants, social leaders, Indigenous leaders and the most affected communities. The plight of children who have been recruited by armed groups and suffered sexual violence and other serious violations of their rights is worrisome. France calls on armed groups to unconditionally release recruited children and to put an end to those practices, which belong to a bygone era and are contrary to international law. Secondly, as regards transitional justice, strides have been made by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace in the pursuit of truth — and I pay tribute to the representative of the Special Jurisdiction, who is present — and in the attribution of responsibility. The restorative sentences, once handed down, must be enforced. France calls for dialogue between the parties to enable that process to move forward. Thirdly, when it comes to rural reform, land allocation and formalization must continue. To that end, the necessary capacities must be allocated to it and inter-institutional cooperation must be enhanced. As a supporting country of that chapter of the peace process, France will continue to champion Colombia in that endeavour. France conveys its respect and admiration for the courage and judgment displayed by the Colombian people on the most arduous path to national reconciliation. France encourages the Colombian Government to redouble efforts to consolidate the progress made. Through its bilateral relations with the Colombian people, to whom it is bound through a long-standing friendship, and through the efforts of the Council, France stands ready to contribute to lasting peace in Colombia, which stands as a paragon for the resolution of other conflicts.

We would like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, for his comprehensive briefing — his last in that capacity. We extend our sincere appreciation to him for his unimpeachable leadership of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and his years-long efforts to advance peace in Colombia. We welcome the presence of the Vice-Minister for Multilateral Affairs, Mr. Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir, at today’s meeting. We note that, thanks to Bogota’s resolve and international support, ever since the signing of the Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace, Colombia has continued to make progress along the fragile but only viable path towards national reconciliation. It is important that the authorities remain committed to their obligations under the Agreement and strive for progress on its various components. Land reform is advancing slowly but surely, and strides have been made in reintegrating former combatants and in ensuring their safety and security. We welcome the holding of this year’s first meeting of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement. It is important that, in their dialogue, the parties to the Agreement identified priority areas for joint efforts. What remains now is the most critical part: to implement what has been agreed. So far, however, we note a persistent and marked discrepancy between the expectations of the signatories to the Final Agreement and the reality on the ground. The worsening situation in a number of regions of the country poses unacceptable risks to the security of various vulnerable groups, including Afro-Colombian and Indigenous people, public and political figures and, of course, former combatants who have laid down their arms. We firmly condemn the attempted assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay and all manifestations of political violence, especially in the run-up to the elections. Killings of, and attacks on, signatories to the Final Agreement continue, preventing them from properly integrating into society. Eighty per cent of former insurgents have been forced to relocate owing to security threats, and 76 per cent remain unemployed. We call for the comprehensive protection programme for former members of the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia, adopted in June, to be implemented with immediate effect. A separate issue is how  — given all the above-mentioned risks  — former combatants and representatives of State bodies, who bear primary responsibility for the crimes committed during the armed conflict, will enforce the sentences that the Special Jurisdiction for Peace hands down. To that end, the authorities must foster the appropriate conditions, with the support of a United Nations special political mission possessing the relevant mandate. On the eve of the long-anticipated handing down of the first decisions by the Special Jurisdiction, we wish to focus on the transitional justice system in Colombia, and, in that connection, we welcome the presence of the President of the Special Jurisdiction, Alejandro Ramelli Arteaga, at today’s meeting. That unique mechanism, established pursuant to the Final Agreement and endorsed by the Security Council, has accomplished tremendous work over the past seven years. It has heard the testimony of thousands of victims, defendants and witnesses; it has collected, analysed and catalogued tens of thousands of diverse pieces of evidence and testimony on crimes committed during decades of armed conflict. But the main innovation of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace is that it serves not to punish, but to reconcile and heal the wounds inflicted on Colombian society by years of enmity and violence. We support that approach and see it as a model for other post-conflict situations, in particular at a time when international judicial mechanisms often serve the interests of specific States rather than justice. In conclusion, I wish to extend our solidarity to the Government and the people of Colombia in their quest for peace. The current Administration has only one year left in office, but we trust that tangible progress will be made during that time frame on key areas of the implementation of the Final Agreement, which is the bedrock of an intra-Colombian settlement. For its part, the Russian Federation will continue to comprehensively support the peace process in the country and the work of the United Nations Verification Mission under its new leadership.

I shall now make a statement in my capacity as the representative of Pakistan. I would also like to join colleagues in thanking the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, for his comprehensive briefing and for his terrific leadership and contribution over six years. We commend the United The 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace remains Colombia’s blueprint for transforming conflict into opportunity. By addressing the root causes of the decades-long conflict in Colombia, undertaking rural reforms and promoting justice, inclusion and reconciliation, the peace agreement is paving the way for a future in which peace is tangible, with dividends for all Colombians. Pakistan commends the Colombian Government and the parties to the 2016 Agreement for their continued commitment to peace, despite many challenges. Their sustained dialogue, willingness to remain engaged, perseverance and resilience are indispensable for the success of the peace process and lasting stability in Colombia. And I note that Special Representative Ruiz Massieu also mentioned two additional qualities of the Colombian people: patience and persistence, which are equally important. Progress in rural reform, including the work on legislation for the operationalization of agrarian jurisdiction, is encouraging. Strengthening land rights and resolving disputes will be pivotal to preventing the recurrence of conflicts while consolidating the gains made in this area. It is also heartening to note that 95 per cent of ex-combatants have completed their individual reintegration plans, yet security risks to and the stigmatization of ex-combatants persist. Sustainable reintegration demands housing and livelihoods, and protection measures remain key to breaking the cycles of violence. Security challenges in certain regions require particular attention, as they threaten the gains made so far in the implementation of the 2016 plan. The targeting of ex-combatants, social leaders and human rights defenders, including from the Afro-Colombian and Indigenous populations, continues to be of concern. We support the Colombian Government’s efforts to further strengthen security measures and expand State control into regions that have hitherto lacked institutional presence. We also deplore the attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay. In that context, we take note of the high-level meeting, chaired by President Petro Urrego, of the Comprehensive Security System for the Exercise of Politics and support the calls for a peaceful electoral process in Colombia. We take particular note of the groundbreaking work of the Special Jurisdiction for Peace and the strides made towards restorative justice as an integral part of peace and reconciliation. The timely implementation of sentences and conditions to ensure their successful implementation will affirm Colombia’s commitment to victims and bring forth reconciliation. Dialogue remains the only viable path to peace. While national policies must be rooted in Colombia’s unique context, identifying a genuine commitment to peace among armed actors is essential. We urge armed groups to renounce violence and engage constructively, recommit to dialogue without preconditions and fully respect the Constitution and national laws. Lasting peace in Colombia will require inclusive dialogue, development and justice, anchored in national ownership and trust. As Colombia approaches elections, it is imperative that all political actors play a role to uphold the spirit of the Agreement and commit to peace. The international community must continue its support for Colombia, the 2016 peace agreement and the vital work done by the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia. Pakistan reaffirms its strong support for this I resume my functions as President of the Council. I now give the floor to the representative of Colombia.

I want to begin by acknowledging the work of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu, who is with us for the last time in a meeting on the Mission in Colombia and is about to embark on a new challenge within the United Nations system. Mr. Ruiz Massieu has carried out his work as the Head of the Verification Mission outstandingly, and since day one, through his committed and impartial work, he has earned the trust and appreciation of all those with whom he has conversed, both on the side of the State institutions and the other high contracting party and representatives of civil society. For that reason, it is important to highlight his professionalism, dedication, commitment and hard work for peace in Colombia over almost seven years as the Head of the Verification Mission, in which time he had the opportunity to work with different Governments, providing support to President Gustavo Petro Urrego in his efforts to achieve the full implementation of the 2016 Final Agreement for Ending the Conflict and Building a Stable and Lasting Peace. During his mission in Colombia, Mr. Carlos Ruiz Massieu has witnessed the challenges of that process and above all the Colombians’ deep yearning for peace, in particular those communities that, despite living in complex conditions, continue to firmly believe that peace, more than a right, will be a reality. On behalf of a Government firmly committed to the consolidation of peace in Colombia, we regret the departure of a true friend of our country. We extend our best wishes to him in this new phase as Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. Furthermore, we regret the fact that, for reasons beyond our control, the representative of the high contracting party of the 2016 Agreement could not be at today’s meeting. In this ninth year of the implementation of the Agreement, it is more necessary than ever to reaffirm the robust support of Colombian society for the process, which is reflected in the unwavering commitment of all State institutions to implementing what was agreed. Colombia is going through a complex moment, but we continue to move forward, full of hope. Under the leadership of President Gustavo Petro Urrego, we made progress in the implementation of the 2016 peace agreement, with the backing of the international community and in particular the Security Council. We know that it is not an easy path, but it is the only legitimate one. We also trust that the United Nations as a whole, and in particular the Security Council, will continue to join us in that endeavour, understanding that this support has been essential throughout the process. We take this opportunity to reaffirm President Gustavo Petro Urrego’s commitment to protecting political guarantees and fundamental rights, regardless of ideologies or positions. For that reason, we once again express our condemnation of the attack on Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, and we express our gratitude for the messages of solidarity from the international community. As a Government, we see this new quarterly report (S/2025/419) as an opportunity to highlight the important progress that we have been making as a country, as well as the persistent challenges to consolidating peace. Colombia welcomes the Secretary- General’s observations and agrees that the achievement of peace is a non-linear and complex process, in which it is possible to move forward by combining our collective will, efforts, commitment and ceaseless work. Once again, the report of In that regard, I would like to make special reference to Judge Alejandro Ramelli, President of the tribunal, and his team, who are with us in the Chamber today and who, during this visit, have shared in various meetings the transitional approach of the tribunal, focused on victims and restorative justice. The Government views very positively the recent announcements made by the tribunal that the first sentences of the Jurisdiction will be handed down very soon — something that is highly anticipated, both in Colombia and on the part of the international community. The Verification Mission has the considerable challenge of implementing the mandate assigned to it by the Security Council, namely, monitoring compliance with the sanctions that the Special Jurisdiction for Peace may impose  — an essential element for the future of the process. We underscore that, across the board, concrete steps have been taken to improve the institutional response coordination in view of the challenges posed by the implementation of the Agreement and that several of the practical mechanisms set out in the text have been activated and are meeting regularly. In recent months, within the framework of the tenets of the Government of change, we have made steady progress in the acquisition, redistribution and formalization of land; in the provision of new prevention and protection tools for the safe exercise of politics; in the strengthening of the National Reintegration System; in the construction of articulation routes for restorative sanctions; in the reinforcement of leadership in key spaces, such as the Comprehensive Security System for the Exercise of Politics and the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement; and in the promotion of concrete actions to guarantee the rights of women, ethnic peoples, youth, girls and boys, from a territorial and differential approach. Likewise, we are committed to the drafting and signing of the national political pact, as a suitable, inclusive and participatory mechanism to improve the quality of political debate and promote significant consensus around solutions to the issues that most affect the lives of people in Colombia. We reiterate the Government’s commitment to the comprehensive protection of children, highlighting the concrete actions taken between March and June 2025. During this period, six fundamental agreements were consolidated with various armed groups and structures aimed at eradicating and preventing the recruitment, use and exploitation of children and adolescents. Progress included commitments to stop recruitment and protect sensitive environments such as schools; the establishment of a mechanism to monitor possible violations of children’s rights; the design of a plan for the extraction of children and adolescents in the Catatumbo region; and the diagnosis of their situation in 10 municipalities. In addition, a sub-committee was formed with structures in Medellín and the Aburrá Valley to implement a comprehensive protection programme that will directly benefit 2,000 children and adolescents. The above progress shows us how far we still have to go and what challenges remain on the different points of the Agreement. We recognize that there are still structural weaknesses that we must address decisively. We are aware of the security difficulties faced by some of the country’s regions, owing to the military actions of various armed actors that have decided not to take the hand of peace extended by the national Government over the last two years. For this reason, this Government remains committed to persist in dialogue and the processes to subjugate the illegal armed actors that are willing to lay down their arms and reintegrate into civilian life, respecting the communities and the signatories of the Final Agreement. The Government will continue to work with determination, hand in hand with communities and institutions, so that peace is not just a promise, but a tangible reality for millions of Colombians, and hopes to continue to count on the support of the international community in this endeavour. Total peace has no borders. Colombia, with the support of the United Nations and the international community, is taking firm steps towards a future in which violence has no place and in which peace is the rule and not the exception. Today, as since the beginning of this journey, we hope to continue to count on the Council’s unanimous support to achieve this purpose.