UN Welcomes Colombia’s First War Crimes Convictions

The United Nations has hailed Colombia’s first convictions under its transitional justice tribunal, calling them a “crucial milestone on the path to accountability,” according to UN human rights chief Volker Türk.

“After decades of atrocity upon 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,” he said.

The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP), created under the 2016 Peace Agreement between the Government and FARC rebels, delivered the sentences 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 enforced disappearances. All admitted their crimes and committed to restorative measures such as humanitarian demining, searching for missing persons, and contributing to memorial projects.

Instead of prison terms, the tribunal imposed restrictions on their movement.

Türk stressed it is now up to the Government to ensure the legal, budgetary, and security conditions for enforcement. UN Secretary-General António Guterres also welcomed the rulings, urging Colombian authorities to guarantee compliance.

The SJP rulings are seen as the first stage of broader accountability. Later this week, the court is expected to hand down its first sentences for members of the security forces over extrajudicial killings.

While marking progress, UN officials cautioned that challenges remain, including ongoing armed conflicts, rights defender killings, child recruitment, and the disproportionate impact on minorities.

“These convictions highlight progress, but also the need to continue prioritizing implementation of the 2016 Peace Accord to prevent further violations and suffering,” Türk said.

The UN human rights office (OHCHR) continues to support the SJP with technical assistance to ensure victims’ rights remain central to the process.