The Colombian government has reached a significant milestone in its attempts to address the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking and armed violence in the country. An agreement was signed in Qatar, marking a commitment to engage in further discussions aimed at the disarmament of the Clan del Golfo, Colombia’s largest drug-trafficking organization. This paramilitary group, which also identifies as the Gaitanista Army of Colombia, has historical roots in previous right-wing paramilitary formations and is notorious for its extensive operation in smuggling cocaine to the United States and Europe.
With around 7,500 members, the Clan del Golfo poses one of the most pressing security issues for Colombia, particularly for President Gustavo Petro’s leftist administration. Since taking office in 2022, President Petro has made it a priority to negotiate the disarmament of various armed groups, viewing this as a vital step in reducing violence in a nation that is the world’s largest producer of cocaine.
Agueda Gomez, a government representative, expressed gratitude to the international community for their support as Colombia seeks a peaceful resolution. The agreement, referred to as the “Commitment to Peace in Doha,” was facilitated by mediators from Qatar, Norway, Switzerland, and Spain.
This agreement outlines two primary tracks for future discussions. The first will focus on the production of drugs and the recruitment of minors from Clan del Golfo in 15 specified territories. The second will concentrate on reintegrating former child soldiers back into society. Luis Armando Perez Castaneda, representing the Clan del Golfo, emphasized the group’s commitment to peace and noted that they aim to address the issues of individuals incarcerated in various prisons, both nationally and internationally.
The clan seeks recognition as a political entity, aiming for judicial treatment akin to that afforded to former guerrilla groups and paramilitary organizations under past peace agreements. Following the landmark peace deal with the now-defunct FARC guerrilla faction in 2016, the Clan del Golfo has emerged as the largest illegal armed group in Colombia.
Qatar’s chief negotiator, Mohammed Al-Khulaifi, noted that this declaration symbolizes a step toward disarmament and ultimately, the foundation of lasting peace. Yet, he acknowledged the myriad challenges that lie ahead, affirming the mediators’ commitment to assist both parties in navigating the complexities of the peace process.
