The peace deal that put women first: What Colombia taught the world

One of the most recent milestones in Colombia’s peace process was the 2024 adoption of a national action plan on women, peace and security, in line with a series of UN Security Council resolutions. It builds on a solid foundation: UN Women’s sustained support for over 120 women-led organizations continuously advocating for women’s rights in actions under the 2016 accord. The Colombian women’s movement is pushing for changes that make a real and lasting difference in women’s everyday lives.

Reintegrating ex-combatants: In the aftermath of the peace agreement, UN Women began supporting nearly 3,000 former women combatants in 11 regions to lay down arms and rejoin their families and communities. They have taken up new roles as citizens, students, entrepreneurs, mothers,  and political leaders. 

Restoring land rights: With a new national law to restore illegally seized land to its rightful owners, UN Women has helped women across the country learn about their rights, gain formal ownership documents, and acquire business and agricultural skills. As Nelly Velandia, a rural leader from central-eastern Colombia, says, “For us, peace is defending the land, food sovereignty, and women’s rights. That is what peacebuilding is about.” 

Healing and recovery: Continuous psychosocial support assists individuals and communities to recover from trauma, seek justice, and manage continued insecurity in many communities. Along the Pacific Coast, one unique initiative is the UN Women-assisted Cantadora network of singers. It has brought women of all ages together to perform traditional Afro-Colombian music, preserving their culture while promoting peace. The group’s “Song for Freedom” resonates throughout Colombia, symbolizing the power of resistance and hope. 

“When we sing, we feel free,” exults Mila Rodriguez, a young member of the network. “Through the lyrics of the songs we sing, we are telling the real stories of our lives. You don’t think about weapons anymore, because your life is filled with music.” 

Defending the environmental defenders: Climate change is putting new pressures on peace, fuelling conflict and unrest. At the same time, standing up for nature is increasingly dangerous: In 2023, 79 women human-rights defenders were murdered in Colombia, the highest number anywhere in the world. A new UN Women programme funded by the Government of Germany helps defend these defenders by working with local authorities to protect their rights to lead, advocate and sustain local ecosystems and livelihoods.    

Sandra Patricia Aguilar Carabalí, president of the Cauca Department Youth Network (REDEJOCA), explains, “Protecting the environment is not only an act of conservation but also an act of resistance to violence and inequality.”