Re-start of ITF Operations in Colombia
On 5 September 2016, during the Bled Strategic Forum 2016, ITF Enhancing Human Security signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation with the Administrative Department of the Presidency of the Republic of Colombia (DAPRE) that is responsible for the strategic direction of the Comprehensive Action against Antipersonnel Mines in Colombia. The MoU represents the grounds for ITF’s cooperation with its Colombian counterparts in the development and implementation of activities contributing to the realization of the peace agreement.
In line with the signed MoU, ITF will provide technical support for the improvement and development of humanitarian demining operations, the implementation of measures of quality assurance as well as quality monitoring of humanitarian demining operations. ITF will also provide technical support to the Directorate for Integrated Action Against Antipersonnel Mines (DAICMA) as well as to institutions and agencies in Colombia in the field of mine victim’s assistance and mine risk education programs.
ITF also took part in the Ministerial Meeting of the Global Demining Initiative for Colombia (Initiative) that was held on 18 September 2016 in New York. At the meeting chaired by John Kerry, U.S. Secretary of State, and Børge Brende, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Norway, Slovenia as a member of the Initiative announced its contribution in the amount of 25,000 EUR. The donation is earmarked for DAICMA capacity building for a project that will be implemented through ITF. In doing so, Slovenia and ITF joined 20 other countries and the European Union in their efforts to support Colombia reach the goals set by the Initiative and to clear Colombia of mines by 2021.
During the meeting 105 million USD was pledged to support landmine clearance in this crucial time for lasting peace in Colombia. Demining operations constitute a key element of Colombia’s post-conflict reconstruction process that will ensure safe and secure environment for all Colombians. ITF is glad to announce the re-launch of its operations in Colombia that will help lay grounds for further development and prosperity.
You can find more information on ITF's past activities in Colombia here.