Yesterday the Colombian Senate passed landmark legislation aimed at compensating victims of the 50 years of civil war that have devastated the country. The decades of conflict have killed nearly a quarter of a million people and have left more than three million Colombians internally displaced as they have sought to escape violence between rebels, paramilitaries, drug cartels, and government troops. The Victim’s Law aims to give financial compensation for victims of the conflict, as well as allowing for resettlement of displaced Colombians.
The resettlement portion of the legislation is particularly important because it is hoped that allowing farmers to return to their land will not only be just, but will also ease the social instability caused by the war. Land reform is a key issue in addressing inequality in Columbia, and that inequality is in part responsible for the continuation of violence in the country. However, the actual process of repatriating displaced citizens will be difficult because violence still continues in many rural areas of the country and residents may be afraid or unable to return. Additionally, many of the country’s political leaders are involved with paramilitary groups who can scuttle the process.
However, Colombia is trying to something extraordinary with the new law in a country where the traditional reconciliation processes may be difficult. Because of ongoing violence, it may not be possible at this time to convene reconciliation councils like those that were successful in South Africa or Chile. One of the chief targets of violence throughout the conflict has been members of the judiciary and law enforcement officials. This makes having criminal or civil trials difficult, if not impossible. However, Colombia’s law would directly compensate victims and let them begin to rebuild their lives. It may not be the public justice that many desire, but it does care for those who have been injured by the war and that is a good start.
Ultimately, the perpetrators of violence and human rights abuses must be brought to justice, but in the short term Colombia’s innovative approach may be useful. By allowing for victims to rebuild their lives the Victim’s Law may increase the stability and cohesion of the Colombian society. This may make it easier to prevent future outbreaks of violence by encouraging cooperation and reducing inequality. Violence has been decreasing in Colombia, but only a more just and equitable society can eliminate it in the long term. Hopefully, the Victim’s Law is an innovative start in the right direction.
