Since January 16, 2025, violence in the Catatumbo region has escalated due to clashes over territorial control between two Non-State Armed Groups (NSAGs). As a result, at least 80 people have died, including five signatories of the final peace agreement. However, the actual number of victims is likely higher due to difficulties in recovering and identifying bodies in conflict-affected areas. Reports also indicate multiple cases of personal injury and forced disappearances. Additionally, broader armed operations, including military deployments and hostilities by the ELN (one of the NSAGs), have further exacerbated the crisis, severely impacting vulnerable populations such as the Barí Indigenous people, social leaders, children, and rural communities.
The humanitarian impact has been devastating, with forced displacement reaching 53,416 people as of February 2, compared to 5,422 cases recorded throughout 2024. Those displaced have sought refuge in municipalities such as Cúcuta (24,435), Tibú (13,373), and Ocaña (10,285). Many have been accommodated in shelters, temporary lodgings, and collection centers set up by local authorities. Meanwhile, 31,358 people remain confined in areas such as Tibú (17,373) and Teorama (9,000), with a high likelihood of further displacement in the coming weeks. Additionally, 4,443 refugees and migrants have been significantly impacted.
In response to the escalating crisis in the Catatumbo region, the Metropolitan Area of Cúcuta, and the municipalities of Río de Oro and González in the department of Cesar, the Presidency of Colombia issued Decree No. 0062 on January 24, 2025, declaring a state of internal commotion. Additionally, on January 23, 2025, the Governor’s Office of Norte de Santander issued Decree No. 000071, declaring a state of public calamity due to large-scale forced displacement. Several local governments, including those of Norte de Santander, Cúcuta, and Hacarí, have also issued emergency decrees to address the urgent humanitarian needs arising from the crisis.
IELCO and its partners will activate the Rapid Response Fund (RRF) to provide protection services to 2,500 displaced individuals over five months. The response will include emergency case management (MPC), the distribution of protection and hygiene kits, food assistance, GBV care, life-saving information on safe routes, psychosocial support, and safe spaces for children. The emergency response will be implemented in collaboration with Iglesia Central in Cúcuta, which operates one of the main distribution centers, and the Presbyterian Church of Colombia in Ocaña, along with other local partners, ensuring coordinated assistance and avoiding duplication of efforts.
