A SITUATION THAT CONTINUES TO ALARM
The conflict in Colombia, which has lasted for decades, is no exception. 52 years of armed conflict resulting in 220,000 deaths, 40,000 missing persons, and 6 million internally displaced persons. Although it is particularly violent for the entire population, both residents and migrants, women represent the majority of victims.
Even though the situation has shown significant improvement since the 2016 peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC, violence persists. At least five other armed groups (ELN, EPL, FARC Dissidents, Clan del Golfo, Autodefensas Gaitanistas de Colombia) continue to spread terror and death among the civilian population.
The COVID-19 epidemic and the migration of Venezuelan populations have only amplified these difficulties, particularly in remote areas where humanitarian access remains a challenge.
Numerous cases of gender-based violence are reported, exacerbating the precariousness of living conditions. « The mere fact of being a woman is, for many groups, a reason to kidnap, sell, or move her from one place to another. » – Maria, community leader and sex worker.
The Médecins du Monde network has also launched an appeal calling for concrete actions
to support the 7 million refugees and migrants
from Venezuela, a significant portion of whom are in Colombia.
PUTTING AN END TO GENDER-RELATED VIOLENCE
Médecins du Monde focuses on the protection of victims of sexual violence
by forming self-support groups and ensuring comprehensive and respectful care in healthcare facilities in Meta, Guaviare, Nariño, Cauca, Valle del Cauca, and Chocó.
The projects include workshops for communities, healthcare institutions, and community leaders on issues such as domestic violence, gender-based violence, and sexual violence to support victims and their families.
« We aim to empower women in their rights, in everything they are entitled to access and receive. » – Marcela Katherine Pastás Chiran, nurse at Médecins du Monde.
The activities aim to provide medical support, nursing care, and psychosocial support to ensure the right to health for these populations.
« What we seek to achieve is to document and report these situations to the State, which has the responsibility to ensure health protection for the entire population. We do not aim to replace the healthcare system; we want to raise awareness and prompt a response within the country’s institutions. » – Jaime Alberto Hernandez, field coordinator at Médecins du Monde.