As Colombia awaits the inauguration of its newly elected president, pockets of insecurity continue to challenge the nation’s progress, according to the head of the UN Verification Mission. Miroslav Jenča, the UN chief’s Special Representative for Colombia, told the Security Council on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, that despite overcoming decades of conflict, areas with acute violence remain where the 2016 Peace Agreement’s implementation and state institutional presence have been insufficient.

Jenča noted that the high voter turnout on June 21, 2026, reflected Colombians’ strong desire to participate in a vibrant democracy. Voting in both rounds was peaceful and orderly, supported by security forces and election observers. This election will bring in the third administration since the historic 2016 Peace Agreement that ended clashes between the Government and the FARC-EP rebel group.

Security concerns remain paramount for the electorate, with ongoing violence fueled by armed groups and criminal organizations competing for control over strategic routes and illicit economies. Jenča highlighted debates about recent peace-making initiatives with armed groups, noting limited results and fears that some groups have expanded their influence.

He emphasized that overcoming these challenges requires holistic solutions as outlined in the 2016 Peace Agreement. The UN Verification Mission, authorized by the Security Council in 2017, continues to monitor the accord’s implementation.

Sources