Colombia keeps door open for ELN dialogue despite setbacks

Colombian Peace Commissioner Otty Patino reaffirmed the government’s openness to dialogue with the ELN rebels despite recent attacks that halted peace talks. The government continues to focus on regional peace strategies, engaging with smaller factions while pushing for irreversible peace processes.

Colombian Peace Commissioner Otty Patino has reaffirmed the government's openness to dialogue with the National Liberation Army (ELN) rebels, despite their recent offensive in the eastern part of the country. Following a series of attacks by the ELN in January, which led to the suspension of peace talks, the government under President Gustavo Petro is seeking to maintain a path toward peace.

Patino emphasised that the door remains open for the ELN, but the group must demonstrate a commitment to peace by changing its approach to violence and criminal activity. The government’s priority now includes engaging with smaller splinter groups, such as the Comuneros del Sur, a faction that recently handed over weapons and signed an agreement to substitute coca crops.

With peace talks progressing with some groups, Colombia aims to build "territorial peace" through regional strategies. The ELN, however, remains uninterested in engaging with Patino, as they do not recognise him as an interlocutor. The Colombian government continues to push forward, with a focus on irreversible peace processes and demobilisation efforts with armed factions.

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