News comment by UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, on the peace agreement in Colombia

“The new peace agreement signed today between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, the FARC, holds out hope that vast numbers of people displaced within their own country can finally return home. We warmly welcome the firm commitment of both sides to end the longest armed conflict in Latin America.

I am confident that this will bring a new chapter for Colombia, where more people have been displaced within their own country than anywhere else in the world - more than 7 million. A few months ago, when I visited the country, I heard from some them how difficult their lives have been and how eager they are to go home. I particularly welcome the provisions aimed at ensuring security for the leaders of social organizations and human rights defenders.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is pleased to have been included as part of the international team supporting verification and implementation of the Agreement for the Victims of the Conflict included in the new peace agreement. I reiterate our full commitment to help ensure victims’ rights and to help find lasting solutions for displaced people.

ENDS

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