Colombia’s Conflict Spirals Out of Control

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has released its annual report on the humanitarian situation in Colombia, revealing stark numbers: 235,619 people were displaced by conflict in 2025, a doubling from the previous year. The ICRC’s findings paint a grim picture of a six-decade-long internal conflict that shows no signs of abating.

The report highlights the devastating impact on civilians caught in the crossfire between armed groups, including dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and rival criminal organizations. Mass displacement events have become increasingly common, with over 87,000 individuals forced to flee their homes. This is not just a matter of numbers; it’s a testament to the human cost of a conflict that seems intractable.

The ICRC notes an alarming escalation in the use of explosives and drones, with the number of people killed or injured by explosive devices increasing by over a third in 2025 alone. Nearly 1,000 casualties were reported, serving as a chilling reminder of the brutality pervading Colombia’s conflict zones.

The long-term effects on communities are also evident. As civilians remain indoors to avoid injury or death, access to basic necessities like education, healthcare, and food becomes increasingly restricted. The report notes that prolonged restrictions have weakened the social fabric of these communities, altering daily life.

The current situation is a far cry from the optimism generated by the 2016 ceasefire agreement between the FARC and the government. While the deal was hailed as a major breakthrough, it failed to address the root causes of the conflict or provide meaningful support for displaced communities. Instead, it created a power vacuum that has allowed dissident groups to splinter off and continue their violent activities.

President Gustavo Petro’s “Total Peace” plan aims to negotiate settlements with armed groups through a more inclusive approach. However, critics have accused the government of being too lenient, and negotiations have stalled in the face of continued violence. The upcoming May 31 elections will be a critical test for this strategy, as right-wing candidates promise to take a harder line against armed groups.

A comprehensive approach that addresses poverty, inequality, and social injustice is needed to break the cycle of violence and displacement. Anything less will only perpetuate the conflict, leaving civilians to bear its brunt. The ICRC’s report highlights the need for sustained international pressure on the Colombian government to address these underlying issues rather than treating symptoms.

In the short term, Colombia’s electoral landscape will be shaped by competing visions of security and negotiation offered by left-wing and right-wing candidates. Ivan Cepeda’s “Total Peace” strategy has won support from some quarters, while Abelardo de la Espriella’s promise to take an iron fist approach to armed groups has resonated with others.

Ultimately, Colombia’s conflict is a symptom of a deeper crisis – one that requires a far more nuanced and comprehensive response than the current patchwork of initiatives. The ICRC’s report serves as a stark reminder of the need for policymakers to work towards a more inclusive, equitable solution that prioritizes the needs and rights of civilians above all else. As the country hurtles toward another year of bloodshed and displacement, it’s imperative that policymakers take heed of the ICRC’s warnings and work towards a lasting resolution.