ELN Enters Peace Talks

On March 30, the Colombian national government and the National Liberation Army (ELN) formally announced the beginning of the public phase of peace dialogues that will take place in Ecuador, Brazil, Venezuela, and other countries in the region.

The National Liberation Army is one of the numerous insurgent groups that have contributed to Colombia’s decades long civil war. The second largest guerrilla group in Colombia, the ELN began as a Marxist-Leninist movement. Due to various acts of violence including kidnapping, drug trafficking,  and hijacking, the ELN has been a major antagonist in the conflict.

Despite never coming to fruition, peace dialogues have been a frequent topic of discussion in recent years. Ultimately, however, neither the Colombian government nor the ELN  have engaged in actual discussion. Presently, the commencement of dialogues provides a stark contrast compared to the previous impasse. According to the official ELN Twitter account, “The ELN has the will and the readiness to build peace with all.” Moreover, according to ELN commander Antonio García, “this is not a process of subjugation, it is a construction process for peace.”

The announcement serves as a fulfillment of nearly two years of partial dialogue. The agenda will highlight the importance of participation in society, democracy, security, and disarmament.

The formal declaration comes at a pivotal moment for Colombia. With the government having had successful peace talks with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia, the largest Colombian insurgent group, the new feat symbolizes another step toward unification after years of polarization. Consequently, Colombia has continued its trajectory toward peace, progress, and stability while ensuring a future unburdened by the violence and division that has characterized the nation for decades.