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Press release
11-09-2025
Plenary session
AFET
Colombia: political violence and terrorism threaten democracy, say MEPs [3]
Parliament condemns the assassination of Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay
Urgent call to investigate terrorist attacks and cartel-linked violence
EU must reinforce its support for Colombia’s peace process and democratic institutions
In a resolution adopted on Thursday, Parliament expresses grave concern over organised crime and terrorist activity in Colombia, urging the EU to support the peace process.
MEPs demand a thorough investigation into terrorist attacks in Colombia, including the assassination of senator and pre-presidential candidate Miguel Uribe Turbay, stressing that those responsible must be brought to justice. Noting that Uribe Turbay’s killing is not an isolated incident, but part of a wider climate of political intimidation and violence, they express their support for all Colombians who reject violence and corruption, and who continue to demand a future based on democratic principles.
Fight against organised crime and terrorist activity*
Parliament points to the proliferation of organised crime and terrorist activity in Colombia’s border regions with Venezuela. These territories have become corridors for drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and money laundering, often facilitated by transnational structures. MEPs warn that this cross-border nexus strengthens Colombian insurgent and dissident groups and threatens regional stability and Colombian sovereignty. In order to reflect the realities on the ground in Colombia, MEPs call on the Council and the High Representative to update the EU’s list of terrorist organisations. They propose to add the Clan del Golfo, FARC dissident groups Segunda Marquetalia and Estado Mayor Central, and the Cartel de los Soles, which provides shelter and logistics support for Colombian armed terrorist groups.
Political polarisation contributes to hate speech and instability*
The resolution also addresses rising political polarisation, warning that inflammatory statements from government figures have contributed to hate speech and instability. The Colombian state must act urgently to protect political actors, human rights defenders, journalists, and citizens exercising their democratic rights. In view of the documented rise in political violence against candidates and leaders during 2025, MEPs call for robust security measures to ensure that the upcoming 2026 elections are conducted in a free and safe manner . They add that the fight against impunity is essential to prevent the repetition of attacks and guarantee the exercise of political rights.
EU support for the peace process*
Parliament wants the EU to reinforce its political, financial and technical support for Colombia’s peace process [4], and to reflect this commitment in the next multiannual financial framework.
The resolution was adopted by 355 votes in favour, 173 against and with 15 abstentions.
Further information
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Snježana KOBEŠĆAK SMODIŠ
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