This is how Emberá families will return from the National Park to Chocó and Risaralda

In a joint effort between the national Government, the District of Bogotá and the Victims Unit, it has been presented a pilot plan for the safe return of more than 600 people from the Emberá community who have expressed their desire to return to their territories of origin.

The announcement was made by Lilia Solano, director of the Victims Unitwho stressed that this process is not new and has been a concern of several previous governments. However, He stressed the Government’s ongoing commitment to address historical failures and ensure the safe and dignified return of affected communities..

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The plan contemplates the gradual return of Emberá families settled in the National Parkin the center of Bogotá, to their places of origin in Bagadó (Chocó) and Pueblo Rico (Risaralda)The first group, made up of 92 families, is scheduled to return on July 29. Subsequently, families from UPI La Rioja are scheduled to return on August 12 and from La Florida on August 14.

“This started years ago and not at the beginning of this Government,” said Solano, emphasizing the continuity and long-term commitment to care for victims of the armed conflict in Colombia.

The process includes meetings with local and traditional authorities to strengthen dialogue and the sustainability of the return of these families to their ancestral territories. In addition, there will be close coordination with the mayors of Bagadó and Pueblo Rico to increase the institutional offer and prevent new displacements in the future.

According to data provided by the Victims Unit, in the first quarter of 2024, 779 people belonging to 196 Emberá households settled in the National Park were identified. Of these, 633 have expressed their intention to return to their territories of origin, while 119 wish to relocate and 17 prefer to integrate locally.

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The pilot plan not only seeks to facilitate the physical return of these communities, but also to guarantee adequate security conditions, access to basic services and opportunities for rebuilding the social fabric in their places of origin, thus contributing to the consolidation of peace and reconciliation in Colombia.