Unilateral ceasefire important for de-escalating the conflict in Colombia

Today, the FARC-EP announced that they would start a one-month unilateral ceasefire on 20 July. The escalation of the conflict since April has resulted in more deaths on both sides, more internally displaced people, and more environmental damage.  

 ‘The recent escalation of the conflict has caused further suffering for an already sorely tried population. It is important to create a climate that encourages the parties to reach agreement on the outstanding issues in the peace process and a final solution to the conflict,’ said Mr Brende.

Only yesterday, Norway urged the parties to immediately cease all actions that could cause further suffering and create more victims in the country. Read the statement here. Norway and Cuba are facilitating negotiations between the Colombian Government and the FARC-EP. The armed conflict in Colombia has lasted for more than 50 years. It has had serious humanitarian consequences and caused terrible suffering among the civilian population.