Churches in Colombia and Ecuador Warn of Hidden Violence at Borders

Brick church with a steeple behind trees and old trees — Wolfgang Weiser / Unsplash

The Churches of Colombia and Ecuador have warned that social control, confinement, and fear are hiding various expressions of a humanitarian crisis affecting border communities. Following four days of dialogue in Tumaco, these religious bodies called for joint responses to address these issues.

Representatives from eight ecclesiastical jurisdictions and social pastoral organizations stated that border security should not rely solely on military actions or territorial control. They argued that ensuring peace requires combating criminal networks, addressing humanitarian needs, expanding opportunities for the population, and strengthening community and institutional presence.

Analysis of the Andean, Pacific, and Amazonian corridors revealed the presence of criminal networks and illegal economies. The Churches alerted that these activities include human trafficking, extortion, arms trafficking, smuggling, illegal mining, and narcotics trafficking, all of which are linked to disputes over social and territorial control. They cautioned that a reduction in reported violent events does not necessarily mean living conditions have improved, as violence is taking less visible forms.

Special concern was expressed for vulnerable groups, including refugees, migrants, women, minors, peasant families, Afro-descendant communities, and indigenous peoples. The Churches noted that these populations face the harshest consequences of violence, which often forces people to abandon their territories.

Environmental degradation was also highlighted as a critical issue affecting border territories. The Churches identified deforestation, river pollution, climate variability, illegal crops, and illegal mining as threats to food security, health, and the ability of communities to remain in their lands. They emphasized that protecting human life and the environment is a single responsibility.

To address these challenges, the Churches agreed to strengthen pastoral accompaniment for communities and deepen their joint analysis of the border reality. They intend to promote initiatives for peace building, reconciliation, and life protection in coordination with international cooperation actors, social organizations, and public institutions. They urged the authorities of Colombia and Ecuador to adopt measures centered on people and communities through binational cooperation.