ICRC - International Committee of the Red Cross

Published purpose

March 25, 2011 - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) aims to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to populations affected by the armed conflict in Colombia in some 20 remote priority zones. It endeavours to ensure civilians have access to essential services, emergency health care, and to resources to restore or preserve their livelihoods. The ICRC seeks to guarantee that civilians, including internally displaced populations and returnees, are respected by all parties to the conflict in accordance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and other applicable national and international laws. Military activity against the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in these areas is causing concerns that the population may come under further pressure from all weapons bearers. Emerging armed groups, violence linked to campaigns to eradicate illegal coca crops, and mines also pose other serious threats to civilians. CIDA’s contribution is supporting the ICRC to provide humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations in Colombia. Examples of activities include: protecting victims of sexual violence; distributing essential household and relief items; repairing water supply and sanitation systems; providing emergency health care to sick and wounded; promoting International Humanitarian Law into the armed forces’ doctrine, and documenting alleged violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law.