Colombia Roundup: Historical war crimes, abolition of child marriage, economic growth 

Armed forces leaders charged with historical war crimes

The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (JEP) in Colombia has charged six former Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) leaders with severe violations, including the forced recruitment of over 18,000 children from 1971 to 2016. Among the additional charges are allegations of torture, killings, and sexual violence targeted at children, with a specific focus on the LGBT youth. This action is part of the larger framework of “Macro-case” 07, which encompasses the suffering of more than 9,800 victims, including many from indigenous groups. The JEP's acknowledgement of violence against LGBT children as a human rights violation during the conflict marks an important step in transitional justice, with civil society advocating for thorough accountability and prosecution of the offenders. 

Abolition of child marriage for persons under 18

Colombia's Senate has unanimously approved the "Son Niñas No Esposas" law, which prohibits marriage for individuals under 18. This reform effectively abolished a long-standing statute from 1887 that permitted children over the age of 14 to marry with parental consent. The decision, made on November 13, underscores a pivotal triumph for the protection of children and women's rights after a protracted 17-year advocacy campaign. As Colombia becomes the 12th Latin American nation to enact such legislation, it faces challenges regarding its implementation, particularly in Indigenous communities where cultural norms regarding marriage differ, as highlighted by Wayuu Senator Martha Peralta Epieyú. The law also allows for the annulment of marriages entered into while underage, addressing significant issues, including gender inequality and teenage pregnancy. 

Peace negotiations continue with rebel group amid split

The Colombian rebel faction Segunda Marquetalia has experienced a split into two factions; however, the majority is poised to continue engaging in peace negotiations with the government. Originating from former FARC members who dissented from the 2016 peace agreement, Segunda Marquetalia is experiencing notable internal rifts, particularly between leader Ivan Marquez and negotiator Walter Mendoza. Mendoza has articulated that disarmament is contingent upon receiving further government concessions, particularly concerning social investment in underprivileged areas. Despite this division, the prevailing faction has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing peace dialogues with the administration of President Gustavo Petro. 

President highlights economic growth

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has reported a significant economic growth of over 10% in the agricultural sector, reflecting a strategic transition from coal reliance towards coffee production and amplified rural development. The rise in both foreign and domestic tourism now exceeds coal's contributions to foreign exchange, signalling a robust shift in economic focus. As fossil fuel industries face declines due to diminishing international prices, the agriculture, tourism, and industrial sectors are on a growth trajectory. The president has also underscored the importance of stimulating housing construction through reduced interest rates and promoting clean energy initiatives within Ecopetrol, the state oil company. 

Colombia’s president describes Venezuela's election as a “mistake”

President Gustavo Petro described Venezuela's presidential election in July as a "mistake," in a recent interview with Brazil's Globo News, contrasting his prior support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. Petro told the news outlet Globo News during his visit to Brazil for the G20 summit that he initially supported Venezuela conducting the elections, but later concluded that the election was not “free.”