The KUMUCUM committee, consisting of nearly 100 former members of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and their families, has begun a new life on a farm in the village of La Granja de Paz in Colombia. This structure was established as part of the social integration program following the peace agreement in 2016, but with the arrival of the new government led by Abelardo de la Espriella, this life is at risk.
Challenges Arising from Government Change
The peace agreement that ended over five decades of war is now facing serious challenges. The new government, adopting a militaristic approach in security policies, has raised serious concerns for KUMUCUM members. They fear that these changes could undermine the peace agreement and threaten the lives they have built over the past decade.
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In recent years, new armed groups, including factions that have split from FARC, have gained power in strategic areas of Colombia, particularly in Putumayo. These areas have become hotspots for criminal activities due to access to drug trafficking routes. As a result, KUMUCUM members and other former FARC fighters are at serious risk.
Economic and Social Impacts
The new government also has plans to eradicate existing coca farms in Colombia, which supply 70 percent of the world's cocaine production. These actions could escalate tensions between farmers, many of whom, including KUMUCUM members, depend on this crop for their livelihood, and security forces. Without a plan to transition these farmers to other sources of income, these developments could lead to armed conflicts between government forces and farmers.
Despite the increasing threats and dangers, KUMUCUM members remain determined to continue their lives and work in this area. They are trying to return to normal life using their previous training as fighters and defend their achievements. However, given the current situation, their future and that of other former FARC members remains uncertain.
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