Colombia: first transitional justice convictions by the Special Jurisdiction for Peace

The Special Jurisdiction for Peace (SJP) issued a landmark ruling against former leaders of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). Seven ex-FARC commanders were convicted of war crimes and crimes against humanity on September 17, 2025. This decision came from a tribunal established through a 2016 agreement between the Colombian Government and FARC rebels to address crimes committed during the conflict.

The SJP, transitional justice tribunal, grants victims the right to justice and truth, contributes to the achievement of stable and lasting peace and enforces accountability. Indeed, the seven former leaders, convicted of grave human rights violations, have committed to the “recognition route”. Indeed, they participate in several activities including assisting in the search of missing persons, contributing to memorialization projects, ecc while facing restrictions on their movement. 

With the support of the United Nations, Colombia faces the important task of ensuring that all conditions are in place for compliance, as stated by Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the Secretary-General and Mr. Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The OHCHR recognises the importance of these convictions. underlying that they represent a first stage of a broader accountability process, looking to address grave human rights violations. With a long road ahead, the UN suggests caution facing the remaining challenges and offers their support to Colombia in doing so.