Bogotá, 5 July 2018 - The United Nations Organization in Colombia vehemently rejects and condemns the killings of human rights defenders and community and social leaders.

The upsurge in violence imperils the conditions for a true stable and lasting peace. The inhabitants of the regions most affected by the armed conflict are those who today are vulnerable to multiple violations of their collective and individual rights, mainly in the departments of Antioquia, Arauca, Cauca, Chocó, Córdoba, Nariño, Norte de Santander and Valle del Cauca, while also acknowledging that other regions are being seriously impacted.

The UN urges the Colombian Government to strengthen prevention, protection and investigation measures to guarantee the right to life and integrity of all Colombians.

The United Nations Organization in Colombia continues to support, within the framework of its respective mandates, human rights defenders and social and community leaders. It also reiterates its firm commitment to communities and to accompanying the Government in its efforts to guarantee the protection of life and to consolidate aspirations for peace in the country.

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