Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 February 2024
46. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagements and initiatives undertaken by his Department in support of the Colombian peace process, including those regarding land reform and inclusion of marginalised communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6923/24]
View answerSince the signing of the Peace Agreement in 2016, Ireland has provided over €20 million to support peacebuilding and the promotion of human rights in Colombia.
Ireland funds the UN Multi Partner Trust Fund and the Organisation of American States Mission to Support the Peace Process. These partners support a broad range of initiatives designed to progress the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement, including land reform and with a particular focus on marginalised communities. Ireland also supports the United Nations’ Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Colombia, which promotes human rights with an emphasis on the territorial, gender and ethnic dimensions.
Since October 2023, Ireland has acted as guarantor in the ongoing peace dialogues with the Estado Mayor Central (EMC). The guarantor role involves maintaining a continuous presence at the talks, promoting and protecting the dialogue process, supporting the parties to advance the process, and providing technical support and assistance.
In addition, Ireland supports various international and local organisations working in Colombia that have made a significant impact in conflict resolution, human rights and building resilient livelihoods of vulnerable communities. Ireland also engages with humanitarian organisations working on demining and in support of the Venezuelan migrant community located in Colombia.
Our Embassy in Bogota supports community peace building dialogues, including exchanges with and lesson-sharing from the Northern Ireland peace process. Ireland has also supported the Office of EU Special Envoy for the peace process in Colombia, led by Eamon Gilmore until the end of this month, and while an elected member on the United Nations Security Council, we advocated consistently for comprehensive implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement.
