More than 46,000 children in Colombia’s Catatumbo region, located at the Venezuelan border, are unable to start the school year due to an escalation in violence that has led the government to close 710 schools across 10 districts until at least 10 February.
The Catatumbo conflict in Colombia has resurged, with recent clashes between the ELN and FARC dissidents causing over 80 deaths and displacing thousands. This violence stems from battles over control of coca cultivation areas and strategic drug trafficking routes near the Venezuelan border.
The conflict has led to the displacement of nearly 50,000 people. An estimated 25,000 people remain in lockdown due to ongoing clashes. In recent weeks, 20 children have been rescued from armed groups, while three children are among 80 civilians killed since 15 January. Authorities have imposed nighttime curfews in several areas in response to increased security threats.
NGOs are launching emergency responses, including hygiene kits, food supplies, and protection initiatives. Organizations have called on authorities to implement comprehensive child protection measures and ensure access to education, mental health support, and violence prevention programs.