ICRC Says Colombia Conflict Displacement Doubled in 2025 as Explosive Violence Rises

Colombia’s internal conflict, which began in the 1960s, has shifted since the 2016 FARC peace deal into a patchwork of dissident rebels, criminal gangs and government forces vying for territory. Olivier Dubois of the ICRC said the 2025 humanitarian situation stems from a progressive deterioration warned about since 2018, leaving civilians facing increasingly serious consequences.

Since 2016, the demobilization of the FARC created power vacuums that splintered into dozens of armed groups, each seeking control over coca cultivation, illegal mining and smuggling routes. This fragmentation has made frontlines fluid and increased the risk of sudden clashes that uproot civilians.

The ICRC recorded 235,619 individual displacements in 2025, twice the 2024 total, and noted that 42 % of those displaced lived in Norte de Santander. In that department alone, nearly 99,000 people were forced to leave their homes due to fighting and threats.

Explosive device incidents killed or injured about 965 people over the past year, marking an increase exceeding one‑third from the previous year. The rise reflects greater use of improvised mines and drone‑dropped munitions in rural areas.

What It Means: The surge in displacement and explosive violence deepens hardship for families, limiting access to farms, schools and health services as many remain indoors to avoid danger. Prolonged exposure to insecurity erodes community networks and livelihoods, effects the ICRC describes as lasting alterations to the social fabric.

Humanitarian organizations report that frequent lockdowns and movement restrictions have cut off food markets and delayed medical evacuations, worsening malnutrition and untreated injuries. Access constraints also hinder the delivery of clean water and sanitation supplies in affected zones.

What to watch next: Observers will monitor the May 31 presidential election, where candidates’ stances on the government’s “Total Peace” negotiation strategy could shape future trends in violence and humanitarian need.