“After decades of atrocity about atrocity, these convictions represent a fundamental step in the fight against impunity in Colombia and in fulfilling the rights of victims to truth and justice,“, Said.
The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP), established under the 2016 Peace Agreement between the Government and the FARC rebels, the Colombian Revolutionary Armed Forces, issued the sentences based on the restorative justice on Tuesday.
Seven former FARC leaders were convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity linked to more than 20,000 kidnappings, torture, sexual violence and forced disappearances.
The court allows the defendants to deny their crimes or recognize them through a “recognition route.”
The seven chose the latter, committing to participate in restorative activities, including humanitarian demining, helping in the search for missing persons and contributing to switching projects.
These measures aim to amplify the transfer of truth, guarantee responsibility and provide repair to victims.
The “recognition route” also means that, instead of complying with sentences of custody in prison, they face restrictions on their movement.
Ball in the Government Court
“Now it is up to the government to take measures so that the legal, budgetary, security and administrative conditions exist to ensure that the resulting sanctions are effectively applied and that the responsibility is fully integrated into the system,“Said Mr. Türk.
The UN Secretary General, António Guterres, also welcomed decisions, noting that they represent a key step forward.
In a statement issued by its spokesman, the UN Chief emphasized that the sentences must be completely implemented and that the Colombian authorities ensure that all conditions are in force for compliance.
“The United Nations, even through the UN verification mission (in the country), remain firmly committed to supporting Colombia in their search for peace, justice and lasting reconciliation,“Said Stéphane Dujarric.
First historical step
SJP decisions mark only the first stage of a broader responsibility process. Later this week, the Court is expected to issue its first sentences for former members of the Security Forces.
These decisions address serious violations of human rights, including “murders and forced disappearances of civilians by state agents, falsely presented as casualties resulting from combat,” according to the UN Human Rights Office, OHCHR.
A long road ahead
While the convictions were acclaimed as a milestone, UN officials warn that the challenges remain.
Armed conflicts continue to affect parts of the country, and human rights violations, including the murders of rights defenders, child recruitment of armed groups and disproportionate impacts on minorities, remain a pressing concern.
“The implementation of peace agreements is rarely a soft or direct process; Often requires years of dedicated effort,“Said Mr. Türk.
“These convictions highlight the progress made, but also the importance of continuing to prioritize the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement to avoid more violations and sufferings.”
UN support
Ohchr supported the creation of the SJP and continues to provide technical assistance for their investigations, ensuring that the rights and participation of victims remain central to the justice process.