Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia has urged all parties to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for 31 May 2026, stressing the importance of avoiding violence and stigmatization. The Mission condemned reported threats against presidential candidates and called on State authorities to guarantee the security of all electoral participants. It will contribute by analyzing security risks and coordinating preventive measures, as it did during the congressional elections held on 8 March 2026.
Since the 2016 Final Agreement between the Government of Colombia and the FARC-EP rebel group, the UN Verification Mission has overseen its implementation, despite a narrowed mandate since October 2025. According to Miroslav Jenča, Special Representative and Head of the Mission, the current mandate focuses on the reintegration of former combatants, security guarantees, and comprehensive rural reform—a process offering potential solutions to illicit economies and ongoing violence.
Challenges persist, particularly in rural areas where reintegration is hindered by fragile socioeconomic, infrastructural, and security conditions. The Mission highlighted that violence from territorial disputes and illicit economic activities continues, notably in regions such as Catatumbo, adversely affecting communities. These factors risk undermining national stability and eroding progress achieved elsewhere.
The Final Agreement remains a comprehensive roadmap addressing the root causes and consequences of the conflict, emphasizing the need for ongoing efforts to maintain and expand the gains made since its signing.