A recent delegation to Colombia heard reports that security for much of the civilian population has deteriorated, political space for legitimate dissent and the defense of basic human rights is being undermined, and dire human needs continue to go unaddressed, exacerbating an already severe humanitarian crisis. The delegation found that in Colombia a vibrant civil society is engaged in a search for peace. Despite the stalling of the national peace process, civil society continues to find ways to encourage peace and development, even in the midst of life-threatening conflict. Churches, non-governmental groups, and local and regional authorities are designing and implementing programs that offer alternatives to violence. Some are engaging in dialogues with local paramilitary and guerrilla forces to establish zones of peace that the armed actors agree to respect. These local and regional peace initiatives are laying the groundwork for confidence-building measures that could lead to broader initiatives for peace at the national level.

There is much the United States could do to improve the chances of reconciliation in Colombia while at the same time more effectively pursuing its counter-narcotics and anti-terrorism agenda. It can, for example, support efforts to address basic human needs (such as access to food, water, clothing, shelter, and employment), provide alternate development options, and support effective demobilization programs. If due process and accountability are to prevail over armed conflict and personalized violence, re-establishing the rule of law and creating conditions that will increase confidence in the judicial system are also essential.

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