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More than three million people in Colombia have been forced to flee their homes during decades of fighting between guerrilla groups, paramilitaries and the army - the highest number of displaced people in the world after Sudan [CARITAS Colombia/CAFOD]

CAFOD spent £573,000 in Colombia in 2008

A country ravaged by violent conflict between the state and guerrilla groups, with its citizens suffering from gross human rights violations.

Conflict has caused more than two million people to flee their homes, while the government has diverted resources away from investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure.

The paramilitaries are also increasing political and economic power, often by taking over the lands of the displaced. UN sources talk of a "complete paramilitarisation of Colombia", reinforcing an unjust social and economic system, and imposing severe limitations on dissent or opposition.

Photogallery: Creating peace amid conflict

Colombia has the highest number of displaced people in the world after Sudan, with millions forced to flee their homes during decades of fighting

Eva Darare works with CAFOD partner the Diocese of Marsabit, supporting both men and women through gender development initiatives [Georgina Cranston]

Tackling domestic violence worldwide

Showcasing the work of our partners around the world tackling domestic abuse

UK protests at Colombia death threats

The British government has promised to discuss new death threats against priests and members of development and human rights organisations in Colombia

Learning to live free of violence

Two mothers tell how training from a CAFOD partner helped their community stand up to threats and abuse from armed groups involved in Colombia's long-running conflict

Father René Rey, project co-ordinator of the mobile health unit at Fundación EUDES [CAFOD]

Direct message to those at risk

Fundación EUDES is a church-based organisation, providing care and support to vulnerable groups living with HIV and AIDS in Colombia

Father Mauricio Garcia is director of CAFOD partner CINEP [CAFOD]

Action for peace in Colombia

Father Mauricio García urges international pressure on the Colombian government to continue working for solutions to the country’s long conflict

The bishop from the battle-zone

Bishop Francisco Javier Múnera does his pastoral visits on horseback and by boat on the edge of the Amazon rainforest - one of the most dangerous areas in the country

Mgr. Hector Fabio Henao (left) director of the Social Department of the Bishop's Conference in Colombia, at the launch of the national Stations of the Cross [Annie Bungeroth]

Church serving the people

Mgr. Hector Fabio Henao is director of the Social Department of the Bishop's Conference. He outlines why the church has the right to be involved in the struggle for peace

Partner killed "by paramilitaries"

CAFOD calls for Colombian government to investigate the murder of a partner working with those living in one of the most conflict-torn areas of the country

Children in Arauca walk behind soldiers as part of the Stations of the Cross ceremony for Holy Week

War-torn Colombia wants UK help

A Colombian Archbishop is visiting the UK encouraging people to support a campaign for peace and justice in the South American country to end 40 years of conflict

Published on 30/07/2003, last updated on 20/02/2009

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