Colombia’s 2016 Peace Agreement remains under international scrutiny as security risks persist for former combatants, civil society, and communities affected by past conflict. The United Nations continues to monitor implementation through its reporting and oversight mechanisms.
The United Kingdom addressed the UN Security Council in New York on 23 January 2026, urging full implementation of the Agreement. Speaking for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, Ambassador James Kariuki called for stronger institutions, respect for transitional justice provisions, and improved security guarantees ahead of national elections.
Introduction
The UN Security Council convened the meeting to review recent developments in Colombia’s peace process, including briefings from Special Representative Jenča and updates on the work of the UN Mission. Member states examined progress and ongoing risks linked to the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement.
The UK contribution set out its priorities for sustained international engagement, institutional continuity, and the protection of civilians and former combatants. The statement reaffirmed support for UN mechanisms involved in monitoring and verification.
UN Security Council Session on Colombia
Ambassador Kariuki thanked Special Representative Jenča for the briefing and commended the UN Mission for its ongoing role in supporting implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement. The UK encouraged the Colombian Government to use its remaining time in office to advance comprehensive implementation and leave strong institutions for its successor.
The statement referred to the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion, and Verification of the Final Peace Agreement as a forum for the parties to address implementation issues. The UK framed institutional continuity as part of maintaining progress under the Agreement.
- UN briefing and mission support
- Institutional continuity for implementation
UK Position and Core Messages
The UK reaffirmed its commitment to implementing the 2016 Peace Agreement in full, including provisions related to transitional justice and accountability. Ambassador Kariuki said these elements remain necessary to deliver restorative justice and reconciliation aligned with the expectations of victims.
Additionally, the statement emphasised that measures under the Agreement should recognise the disproportionate impact of the conflict on Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities. The UK linked this point to the Peace Agreement’s Ethnic Chapter and its role in implementation.
UK Priorities Highlighted
| Implementation | Comprehensive delivery of the 2016 Peace Agreement commitments |
| Institutions | Strengthen mechanisms that can sustain delivery beyond the current term |
| Justice provisions | Support for transitional justice and respect for sentences and sanctions |
| Ethnic Chapter | Recognition of impacts on Afro-Colombian and indigenous communities |
Transitional Justice and Ethnic Chapter
The statement described transitional justice provisions as essential for public confidence in the Agreement and for delivering accountability and reconciliation. Ambassador Kariuki referred to the Special Jurisdiction for Peace and said respect for its sentences and sanctions is necessary for trust in the transitional justice mechanism.
However, the UK noted that responsibility for verifying the implementation of sanctions mandated by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace no longer sits with the UN Verification Mission. The UK said it hopes the parties will agree a new mechanism to verify implementation of these sanctions.
Elections, Security, and Protection of Civilians
The UK described Colombia’s elections as a milestone that carries a heightened risk of violence and intimidation. Ambassador Kariuki urged the Colombian Government to strengthen security guarantees and ensure a safe and inclusive democratic process as set out in the Final Agreement.
The statement also referenced continued targeted violence, noting that 487 former combatants have been killed since the signing of the Agreement. The UK called on all actors to respect the democratic process and protect civilians, including signatories and civil society.
- Security guarantees for elections
- Protection of former combatants and civilians
Stakeholder Comments
Ministerial Comments
James Kariuki, UK Chargé d’Affaires to the UN said;
“The UK reaffirms its commitment to the implementation of the 2016 Peace Agreement as a whole, including its provisions on Transitional Justice and the Ethnic Chapter.”
In Conclusion
The UK statement at the UN Security Council set out its support for full implementation of Colombia’s 2016 Peace Agreement and for institutions that can sustain progress across political transitions.
It also highlighted the role of transitional justice provisions and the need for a credible verification mechanism for sanctions. The UK urged stronger security guarantees ahead of elections and called for protection of former combatants, civil society, and civilians.
Sources: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News, an independent news organisation delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analysed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
