Colombia shifts strategy against illegal armed groups

Colombia is transitioning its approach to combating illegal armed organizations, moving away from the “total peace” negotiation model toward a strategy focused on disarmament, judicial cooperation, and military pressure. The Colombian Congress has approved a measure, pending presidential signature, that offers sentence reductions to combatants who surrender, dismantle criminal networks, release hostages and minors, and provide information on illegal assets.

This policy shift follows reports of rising numbers in armed group membership, which grew from 15,120 at the end of 2022 to approximately 28,802 by July 2026. The current administration attributes this growth to previous ceasefires and negotiations that allowed these organizations to strengthen.

Narcotrafficking remains the primary funding source for these groups, including the Clan del Golfo, ELN, and FARC dissidents. According to Fedesarrollo and the Laboratory of Justice and Criminal Policy, these organizations generate over US$16.5 billion annually through illicit activities. UNODC data indicates that coca cultivation reached 261,000 hectares in 2024, with potential cocaine production exceeding 3,000 tons.