Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced a Colombia state of emergency in response to a series of deadly guerrilla attacks in the country’s northeast. These assaults, attributed to the National Liberation Army (ELN), have taken dozens of lives and forced thousands of residents to flee their homes. The measure, known as “internal commotion,” allows the executive branch to swiftly enact certain laws without congressional approval. However, it cannot be used to dissolve congress or revoke civil rights.
Declaring Internal Commotion
President Petro intends to sign a decree that activates the Colombia state of emergency for three months. In similar cases two decades ago, the government used this measure to impose extra taxes to bolster the military. Petro, who served in a guerrilla group during his youth, emphasized that the ELN has “chosen the path of war,” prompting a robust military response. He compared the rebels’ tactics to those once used by notorious cartel leader Pablo Escobar, given the bombings and targeted killings.
Background on the ELN Conflict
The ELN, believed to have about 6,000 fighters, remains Colombia’s largest active guerrilla organization. Peace talks began in 2022 after Petro pledged to demobilize the ELN within months of taking office, but these negotiations have stalled. The rebels claim they are fighting rival groups and not targeting civilians, though local communities report forced displacements and executions in contested areas. The government accuses the ELN of kidnapping and extortion, further complicating efforts to reach a lasting peace.
Worsening Humanitarian Crisis
Violence in Catatumbo, a mountainous region on the border with Venezuela, has escalated dramatically. Residents describe masked gunmen moving from house to house, warning families to leave. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs estimates that more than 18,000 people have been displaced in recent days. Many fled to the cities of Tibu, Ocaña, and Cúcuta, where they face overcrowded shelters and limited resources. Community leaders who have spoken out against the ELN also fear for their lives.
Future Prospects
The Colombia state of emergency reflects the severity of the crisis and underscores Petro’s determination to end the ELN’s influence. Yet concerns remain about potential abuses or overreach under the emergency decree. Human rights advocates stress the importance of ensuring that legitimate measures do not undermine Colombia’s constitutional protections. Meanwhile, ordinary citizens hope for tangible security improvements and the restoration of peace in conflict-torn regions.
