UN denounces threats to victims participating in Columbia, FARC peace talks

World Today

As the peace talks continue between Colombia’s government and the FARC rebel group in Havana, the United Nations has denounced threats to Colombian victims participating in the negotiations. CCTV America’s Michelle Begue reports.

Fabrizio Hochschild, the U.N. resident and humanitarian coordinator in Colombia, revealed that of the 24 victims participating in the peace talks, seven have been “vilified by the press, social media and even politicians” who oppose the talks.

“Three have suffered death threats, this is a symptom of society that is still very polarized and where many are still against the peace process. But it is very unfortunate that those who should make such a tremendous sacrifice for peace who show a willingness to relive their suffering in order to contribute to a better society for their future, should have to go through this at the hands of anyone,” Hochschild said.

U.N. officials warned that there is a high possibility that the polarization in Colombia will deepen and those who benefit from the war may step up their attacks against any future peace deal.