Colombia: Determination and Certification of Colombian Government and Armed Forces with Respect to Human Rights Related Conditions

On July 28, 2008, the Department of State determined and certified to Congress that the Colombian Government and Armed Forces are meeting statutory criteria related to human rights and severing ties to paramilitary groups. This determination and certification permits the full balance of FY 2007 and FY 2008 funds designated for assistance to the Colombian Armed Forces to be obligated.

Strengthening respect for human rights in Colombia is of paramount importance. The Colombian Government and Armed Forces have made impressive strides in improving the protection of human rights and eliminating ties between members of the Armed Forces and illegal armed groups.

We recognize that additional progress must be made. The United States takes seriously all reports of human rights abuses, and will continue to engage the Government of Colombia on these issues. We also will continue to support programs that further improve the human rights performance of the Colombian Armed Forces, sever all military ties to illegal armed groups, and ensure the effective investigation and prosecution of human rights abuses.

With these goals in mind, we will continue to engage with Colombian and international human rights groups, as well as civil society, on Colombia’s human rights performance. We appreciate the commitment of these groups to the continued improvement of the human rights situation in Colombia.

2008/604