Saturday, February 21, 2009

Displacement— A Huge Crisis

This is where many displaced people first get started on the path to justice with the able assistance of Cocomarcia
a grassroots campesino organization in the department (state) of Choco.

Quibdó—Peace Building’s Benefits

The Colombian government has initiated some reconciliations but current estimates of the number of internally displaced persons in Colombia range anywhere from 2.6 to 4.3 million people. The issues surrounding justice and the ownership and right to occupy land is key to insuring peace and stability.

CRS’ programs are not done as a solo effort but in partnership with a variety of groups, often grassroots organizations. Peace-building efforts in Colombia has seen many programmatic successes but the need is urgent and constant due to the changing nature of the displacement of peoples throughout Colombia.

The partners we work with use a strategy based on four main types of outreach:

1) Human rights training workshops:
this includes education of people of their personal rights and collective rights as a cohesive community.

2) ACNUR trains and provides lawyers:
(Alto Comisionado de las Naciones Unidas para los Refugiados)
—the High Commission of the United Nations for Refugees

3) Video and Radio Communications

4) Humanitarian Aid: food and clothing distribution and standing up for people when representatives or negotiation

My next post will be an accounting of a visit to a center that helps the displaced assimilate in Quibdó, trains them on their rights as well as gives them basic skills for a better future.


© Copyright 2009 Guy Arceneaux All rights reserved

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Having once been a displaced refugee myself, I know that they can use all the assistance & guidance these grassroots organizations can offer & more. Keep up the good work!