Issuu

Magazine

FOKUS women Number 5 | Second semester 2023

Colombia and Guatemala

Challenges

Gender

Interview

Page 8

Page 20

Page 40

Peace without us does not happen! Challenges for peacebuilding

Ixhil women increase their denounce of gender-based violence

Interview with the Norwegian Ambassador to Colombia Nils Martin

CONTENT Colombia and Guatemala experience democratic shifts to the left/progressivism................................................................................................................. 4 Country Director Regional Latin America Ana Milena González Valencia Communications Officer Adriana Soler Torres -FOKUS in Guatemala Yenny Leguizamón Orjuela -FOKUS in Colombia Design Leidy Sánchez Jiménez Translation of Articles Sammy Riley Copyediting María José Díaz Granados M. Photographs FOKUS and Partners in Latin America Acknowledgments articles Norwegian Embassy Interview Mr. Ambassador Nils Martin Gunneng CEO FOKUS Sylvi Bratten

There’s more to life than you’ve been told - dare to live it!........................................... 6 Peace without us does not happen! Challenges for peacebuilding........................... 8 Healthy motherhood involves rights and justice.............................................................10

Women and the challenges of the times............................................................................ 12

Akubadaura: Strengthening indigenous voices............................................................... 14 Social protest, change and peace.......................................................................................16

Is social change forgetting rural women?..........................................................................18 Ixhil women increase their denounce of gender-based violence........................... 20 Indigenous Women of the Sierra Nevada de Gonawindua work towards achieving Total Peace................................................................................. 22

Women allies for their reproductive rights and autonomy - MADERA.................... 24

2023 in pictures....................................................................................................................... 26 Women remain committed to building peace in Bogota............................................ 30 One year of free access to abortion in Colombia..........................................................32

Impact of Healing from Violence on Women’s Lives.....................................................34 Forced marriages and unwanted pregnancies among girls and adolescents in Guatemala: an urgent reality.......................................................... 36

Cartography and art for peace.............................................................................................38 Interview with the Norwegian Ambassador to Colombia Nils Martin .................... 40

Women’s bodies free of violence....................................................................................... 44 Weaving threads: challenges for indigenous women in peacebuilding................ 46

The Resolution 1325 Action Plan will be a reality soon............................................... 48 The articles are the sole responsibility of their authors.

Local Partnerships. Global Impact...................................................................................... 50

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{ Editorial }

EDITORIAL

his is our fifth issue of the FOKUS Women Magazine and it is accompanied by a special moment for our organisation. We are transitioning from a Colombia Country Office to a Latin American Regional Office, which will accompany the organisations and projects we support in Colombia and Guatemala.

This magazines reports on the hopes and challenges faced by women's organisations (using a broad sense of the term) in Colombia and Guatemala when working on the issues of violence experienced by women, young women and girls, the lack of free and autonomous access to sexual and reproductive health and rights and difficulties with consolidating peace. Both countries have similar political contexts and are currently experiencing democratic transitions towards left-wing and progressive political options. As a result of these changes, the hope that women's rights become a reality is growing stronger, even though these political sectors have been affected by patriarchal logic and a lack of recognition of women's political activism. This issue of the magazine highlights the FOKUS’ new approach to the region, which is occurring at the same time as a change in the management of the Norwegian office. These transformations give us new perspectives and strengthen our intention to continue to fight for women's rights with increased determination. The reflections shared by the partner organisations in their articles, as well as the interview with the Norwegian Ambassador to Colombia, demonstrate our continued support for the debates and struggles undertaken by women's organisations in these countries. Their work includes the strengthening of democracy and the full application of the rule of law. Women's rights are a priority for the new national governments in both countries. We thank all of our partner organisations in Colombia and Guatemala for sharing their contributions and reflections in this issue. FM

{ Under a Magnifying Glass }

COLOMBIA AND GUATEMALA

EXPERIENCE DEMOCRATIC SHIFTS TO THE LEFT/ PROGRESSIVISM In their national elections held in 2022 and 2023 respectively, Colombia and Guatemala experienced shifts to the left/ progressivism, with the successful candidates proposing important political reforms that contribute to eliminating social inequalities in their government programs.

TEXT AND PHOTO: FOKUS - OFICINA EN LATINOAMÉRICA

he emergence of left and centre-left governments in Latin America has been a response to social discontent with the neoliberal economic measures that have led to a major economic crisis. This situation has been aggravated by the Covid-19 pandemic and global impacts of the war in Ukraine. These shifts occurred after many countries in the region overcame dictatorships and achieved democratic political systems in the last two decades of the 20th century.

Some commentators have said that Latin America has taken a turn to the left due to the election of governments led by López Obrador in Mexico, Boric in Chile, Petro in Colombia, Lula in Brazil, and most recently Arévalo in Guatemala. There have also been decades of Chavism in Venezuela and Castroism in Cuba, even though the new

leftist governments have distanced themselves from these regimes. Despite this situation, there are still many right-wing governments in the region that, alongside traditional sectors such as churches, seek to impose ideologies and positions on our countries that violate human rights. There have been significant changes in both Guatemala and Colombia. In Colombia, the left-wing candidate Gustavo Petro - who was part of the M-19 guerrilla group that signed a Peace Agreement in the 1990s – along with his vice-president Francia Márquez, an Afro-Colombian land rights activist, won the 2022 na-

{ Under a Magnifying Glass }

However, these governments can generate reforms that will contribute to reducing social inequalities and lift “the nobodies”, to use a term popularised by Colombia’s Vice-President Francia Márquez, out of their historical exclusion. For all of the reasons cited above, the political commitment from actors in international cooperation who are committed to the defence of human rights, particularly women’s rights, is to continue accompanying social organisations that are focused on achieving peace. This concept of peace does not just involve silencing guns, but also includes the social, economic, cultural and political justice that is so necessary for real democracy.

tional elections. This represented a break from the political establishment that has historically been populated by the country’s economic and political elites. In the case of Guatemala, Bernardo Arévalo - who is described as progressive rather than leftist - and his vice-presidential running mate Karin Herrera, who claims to be a feminist, also represent an alternative to the conservative political establishment that has previously governed the country. This juncture is important for these two countries, as they have both experienced long-running internal armed conflicts that have primarily affected vulnerable and ethnic populations.

The priorities of both governments include anti-corruption policy reforms, environmental care and social development. In the case of the Colombian government, Petro has proposed the idea of “Total Peace”, which involves negotiating with all of the armed groups involved in the country’s conflict. These policies are not designed to bring about immediate change, especially because the capitalist economic model remains intact and many sectors benefit from it. Added to this complex panorama is the regional economic situation in which average economic growth is expected to be 1.3% this year, adverse international conditions and the strengthening of right-wing groups in both societies.

In their organisations, communities and territories, FOKUS partners have consolidated democratic processes through collective practices that contribute to caring for and promoting the common good. Our partners do not just defend and fight for women’s rights, but also take action to support the rights of these women’s population groups and communities. The challenge is to learn from these experiences so that they can be used, not just at the territorial level, but so they can be of benefit to all society. Julia Esquivel in Guatemala said that “they may cut all the flowers, but spring will always return”. We hope that these “springs” will also be a time to: prevent violence against women, young women and girls; strengthen the rule of law that guarantees sexual and reproductive rights for women and girls; and, of course, contribute to progress with peace building and peace consolidation that allows us to eradicate the effects of armed conflict in both contexts. FM

{ Rights }

THERE’S MORE TO LIFE THAN

YOU’VE BEEN TOLD - DARE TO LIVE IT!

TEXT AND PHOTO: FOR US WOMEN IXMUKANÉ ASSOCIATION

consisting of Mayan women that has members in the department of Quiché. Faced with the situations described above, which are detrimental to good living for indigenous women, young women and girls, Ixmukané believes that it is extremely important to strengthen women’s political participation in decision-making spaces so that they can advocate on Denaturalising violence against women and exercising our issues that affect them in the second individual and collective rights are fundamental for good living. half of 2023. Furthermore, Ixmukané has implemented processes and ache depa r t ment of decision-making spaces. In addition, tions that contribute to denaturalisQuiché is located in public health services do not provide ing violence against women and girls. northern Guatemala culturally and linguistically appropri- The organisation has also highlightand is characterised ate access, assistance and information, ed the importance of transforming by its multilingual and specifically in relation to the sexual cultural patterns and social and multi-ethnic nature. and reproductive health of women, gender norms that generate violence 89.17% of its population is indige- young people and adolescents. Quiché against women. Ixmukané staff work nous, of whom 47.97% are men and hard to prevent early and 52.03% are women. Historically, the forced unions by providlocal Maya K’iche’ population has faced Access to culturally and ing relevant information multiple social, political and economic linguistically relevant to women, young people problems, with indigenous women and and adolescents about information on sexual young people being the most affected. their sexual and reproand reproductive rights is ductive health. Problems including the internal essential for preventing armed conflict, poverty and extreme One of the main stratepoverty, racism, discrimination, vi- early and forced gies that Ixmukané is curolence, lack of access to justice and pregnancies and unions. rently implementing, and the lack of culturally relevant health which is supported by the care have strongly affected indigeFOKUS Women and Develnous women and young people. has the fourth highest number of cases opment Forum, is the implementation of early and forced pregnancies at a na- of a Political Training School for the Currently, there are challenging sce- tional level. prevention of violence against indignarios in terms of access to justice enous women and girls. This School victims of gender-based violence The Por Nosotras Ixmukané Associ- trains female leaders so that they can and a lack of female participation in ation is an organisation led by and identify, accompany, advise and refer

{ Rights }

Psychosocial healing care session with female leaders.

cases of violence against women. Staff do not just train participants during these sessions. They also help heal the emotional and psychological trauma caused by this violence through the use of relaxation techniques and tools. Due to the lack of information available from the public health and education systems, there is a need to raise awareness and deliver comprehensive sexuality education through diploma programs, training sessions and community information fairs on the topic of sexual and reproductive health. This needs to occur in a culturally and linguistically relevant manner. The goal is that adolescents and young people make more informed and conscious decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. The awareness-raising sessions with young peo-

Psychosocial training and healing of indigenous women is a strategy that helps overcome trauma caused by violence. ple and adolescents have generated the following statements: ”If I know about my reproductive rights then I can tell my friends and help avoid unwanted pregnancies. Getting information represents hope for me and my community” (participant in the training process in San Andrés Sajcabajá). This shows that Ixmukané’s intervention helps young women and adolescents avoid early pregnancies. It is also important to note that most of the participants in this process are chil-

dren of female survivors of intimate partner violence and single mothers. They have invited Ixmukané to carry out psychosocial healing processes with adolescents and young people, helping them to overcome trauma caused by violence and design new life projects.

For Ixmukané, it is important to continue to strengthen our work in the following areas: awareness raising; prevention, assistance and reporting of violence against women; and facilitating access to sexual and reproductive rights. Addressing gaps and issues is essential for eliminating the inequalities and exclusions faced by indigenous women, young people and adolescents. FM

{ xxxx }

PEACE WITHOUT US DOES NOT HAPPEN!

Commemoration of International Women’s Day, 8 March 2020.

CHALLENGES FOR PEACEBUILDING August 7 marked one year since the election of the current national government. We will have a look at what has already been achieved and invite you to help us build a peaceful country with social justice.

ugust 7 marked the first anniversary of the election of the current government, headed by President Gustavo Petro and Afro-Colombian Vice-President Francia Márquez. We do not intend to conduct an analysis of this first year of government. We want to look at what has already been achieved because we are now in a different historical moment and with a political situation that has changed. We need to work together to take advantage of the historic opportunity we have to build a country that lives in peace and enjoys

TEXT AND PHOTO: CORPORACIÓN ENSAYOS PARA LA PROMOCIÓN DE LA CULTURA POLÍTICA

social, economic, gender and environmental justice. We know that more than two hundred years of patriarchal, sexist, classist and colonialist history will not be eliminated by the “clean slate” that this national government represents. This is because these power structures, which reproduce multiple expressions of inequalities, are entrenched in our political culture. However, we recognise that for the first time in Colombia’s history a government is questioning, challenging, destabilising and shaking up the oligarchic power that has, until now,

maintained the country’s long history of violence, discrimination and inequality. To fulfil our goal of looking to the recent past to understand our achievements alongside the challenges we face, we would like to discuss an event that we convened, in partnership with other women’s and sex and gender dissident organisations, in the department of Cauca in February 2022 during the national election campaign.

{ Challenges }

This meeting was held at the main campus of the Universidad Autónoma Indígena Intercultural (Intercultural Indigenous Autonomous University - UAIIN) in Popayán and was titled “Women, power and democracy”. As part of this event, we had the opportunity to talk to the then presidential candidates Francia Márquez and Aída Quilcué, both of whom share a history of inequality, racism and discrimination experienced by black and indigenous women in the department of Cauca that is embedded in their memories, in their stories and in their bodies. During the event, these two voices vindicated the legacies of black, indigenous, peasant and mestizo women, both urban and rural, helping us to dream and believe. Both of the candidates forcefully declared that, “we are in the age of women, we are in the age of Mother Earth!” The power of firing our imaginations and finding unity in the midst of our differences meant that this event went down in history. It was a unique day for women, as we saw our lives, struggles, dreams, realities and commitments represented in Aída and Francia. Today, Francia Márquez, born in the Municipality of Suárez, Cauca, is the first black vice-president in the history of Colombia, while Aída Quilcué, an indigenous Nasa woman from Tierradentro, is a senator of the Republic. Indigenous, black and peasant women, women ex-combatants who signed the Peace Agreement, and women from the northern Cauca who participate in the spaces promoted by the Corporación Ensayos recognise that the government led by the ex-President Iván Duque fulfilled its promise to “destroy” the Peace Agreement signed with the FARC guerrilla group. It was

precisely this lack of political interest in the effective implementation of the Agreement that transformed and worsened the conflict in the regions, diversified the armed actors involved and generated a significant humanitarian crisis that we are still experiencing across Colombia.

characterisations of armed actors in the regions, understand transformations in regional conflicts and identify the interests involved. We need to ask about the role of young people in war and peace and insist that peace will only be possible if we guarantee a life free of violence for women and gender-dissident people.

For this reason, we welcome the current government’s commitment to achieve what it has called “Total Peace”, whih has been placed at the centre of its

When we spoke with Francia and Aída last year, we were not sure if we were going to see the first progressive government in the history of the country. In addition to taking We are in a different up many social causes, historical moment and in a it has also defined itself as a feminist and political situation that has anti-patriarchal govchanged. We need to work ernment. We dreamed together to take advantage of of this and we created the conditions to unite this historic opportunity. our efforts and imagine what could be possible. political agenda and government pro- This government is now a reality and grams. As civil society organisations, we cannot miss out on this historic and specifically as women’s and sex opportunity to generate the necesand gender dissident organisations, we sary transformations that will help face serious challenges and a historic us achieve peace, expand democracy responsibility to contribute to peace- and facilitate social, economic, enbuilding in the country. vironmental and gender justice. We will continue to communicate our deWe insist on the need to guarantee mands inspired by territorial, interthe full implementation of the Peace ethnic and intercultural feminisms Agreement with the FARC guerrilla through our political and organisagroup, create a favourable environ- tional autonomy. We insist that peace ment for peace and design strategies without women and sex and gender so that civil society organisations and dissident people is not possible and members of the public recognise and that the revolution must be feminist. understand the importance of their It is our time now, and we will make participation in dialogue and negoti- the most of it. FM ation processes with all armed actors. We need to propose mechanisms so that participation in these negotiations is binding, decisive, equal and Learn more regional and the peace talks include https://soundcloud.com/user-889219542/podcast-participacion-politica-e-incidencia-de-las-mujeres gender, ethnic, territorial and generhttps://soundcloud.com/user-889219542/episoational differential approaches. We dio-de-mesa-de-diversidad-sexual-en-santandbelieve that it is essential to increase er-de-quilichao

{ Rights }

HEALTHY MOTHERHOOD

INVOLVES RIGHTS AND JUSTICE

Growing up and living without a mother is a preventable tragedy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nine out of ten maternal deaths are preventable. Healthy motherhood is a right, a State obligation and a development priority that is grounded in sexual and reproductive rights and the empowerment of adolescent girls and women. No woman should die creating a life. n Guatemala, one woman dies every day1 due to pregnancy or giving birth, leaving emptiness and pain in her family. What are we doing to prevent this? We work in partnership

MSPAS - National Maternal Death Report, 2019.

TEXT AND PHOTO: INSTANCIA DE SALUD DE LAS MUJERES - OSAR

with FOKUS to strengthen the exercising of sexual and reproductive rights.

of Chimaltenango. It is essential that they have a healthy pregnancy experience.

Motherhood is a special condition for women that must be experienced with joy, care and protection. For this reason, we work with indigenous pregnant women, who form part of the majority indigenous population in the department

The attitudes of staff are an important factor in the provision of health services, which is why a woman should be called by her name and not “mum” or “my daughter”. These are discriminatory terms that can be rooted in sexist

{ Rights }

attitudes and cultural beliefs. Speaking to women in their mother tongues, listening to them and answering their questions are actions that are emphasised in the awareness raising activity we carry out with health workers. Choosing motherhood is a life-changing decision for a woman and her partner. Teenage pregnancies are common in Guatemala: one in four pregnancies are women under 20 years of age.2 Between January and June 2023, 33,2403 births were registered to mothers aged 10-19. Of this total, 1,242 mothers were under the age of 14. This situation translates into negative effects for female adolescents, as some of them are forced into motherhood. Adolescent girls face motherhood alone. 50% are single mothers who: have a high chance of being victims of family violence; drop out of school; obtain informal employment with low wages; and are vulnerable to a new pregnancy. In 2021, data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE) reported 13 cases of adolescents aged 19 who each have 5 children. Girls and adolescents who become pregnant find that their dreams are cut short and, on many occasions, they have to take care of a baby they did not want and whom they may not be able to suitably care for. This situation means that in addition to providing comprehensive and differentiated approaches, adolescent and youth health actions should involve a local analysis of the characteristics, needs and situations for this population. Social determinants such as access to education, early marriage, inequitable social imaginaries and poverty are

MSPAS National Survey of Maternal and Child Health ENSMI 2014-2015. https://www.ine.gob. gt/images/2017/encuestas/ensmi2014_2015.pdf

https://osarguatemala.org/registros-de-nacimiento-y-embarazos-en-madres-adolescentes-ano-2023/

both a cause and a result of adolescent pregnancy. In order to make progress with adolescent and youth health, coordinated and multisectoral actions are needed. This will make it easier to go beyond simply providing medical care for symptoms and will result in progress with health promotion.

a difficult issue to address in a conservative society with double standards. For example, Guatemala has high indicators of maternal death, sexual violence, early pregnancies and denies women access to contraceptive methods.

In Chimaltenango, 40% of births are delivered by birth attendants. Working with The challenges identified by the Ob- birth attendants to provide misoprostol servatory evidence that good sexual to women during the postpartum period and reproductive health care is not is an effective strategy designed by the always available, especially for ado- Ministry of Health. This practice reduces lescent females. the risk of haemorrhage caused by retained placenta or uterine atony. However, this stratGirls and adolescents who egy has not been implemented across the country. become pregnant find that

their dreams are cut short and, on many occasions, they have to take care of a baby they did not want and whom they may not be able to suitably care for. In partnership with FOKUS, the Observatory of Sexual and Reproductive Health is developing solutions to these issues through two areas: promoting peer-to-peer sexual education among adolescents and young people; and ensuring that health services provide quality and humanized care for pregnant women. As a result, sexual education with adolescents is fundamental. The “peerto-peer” strategy is used with young people delivering sex education to other young people using playful and participatory methodologies like “Score a goal against sexism”. Even with resistance to sexual education at the political level, activities are coordinated with schools and health services. There are many challenges involving sexual and reproductive rights because it is

To ensure that this project is sustainable, we carry out awareness raising actions with Congress representatives, local councils and health authorities, encouraging them to allocate budgets for sexual and reproductive rights or make changes to laws or regulations so that they include these rights. The active participation of women, adolescents and young people is necessary to transform health services that have traditionally been considered curative. These transformations will convert these services into spaces where these populations can access the right to health., These health services will generate opportunities that improve the quality of life for the Guatemalan population through different programs and strategies. FM

Learn more https://w w w.faceb o ok .com/watch/?v= 2273431372811735 https://www.facebook.com/osarjuvenilguatemala/videos/1143031459724878

{ Resistance }

WOMEN AND THE CHALLENGES OF THE TIMES Our purpose is to develop leaders and continue to fight against war and all forms of violence. Our schools train women leaders and seek to influence peace.

TEXT AND PHOTO: CORPORACIÓN COLOMBIANA DE TEATRO

he times we live in are not easy. The patriarchal, neoliberal and war-based model for society has pushed humanity to unpredictable limits. This model is rolling back social and historical gains to the point that human life on earth, along with all species, is in danger.

However, resistance is growing and us women - who are one humanity have to defend life on the planet, in our countries and in our homes. We have to combine the wisdom of our foremothers to meet the challenges of the present. Women face a difficult context. Many historical gains are being rolled back

and the relentless extraction of the earth’s crust is reaching an unbearable level of activity. According to the United Nations, the earth has entered a critical period due to the climate crisis. There are alarming environmental signs and we have gone past the point of no return for some species. At the same time, however, there are winds of change. Our instinct for self-preservation has set off alarm bells and we are entering a different age. We are not in an era of change but in the change of an era, which affects the lives of everyone. We can conclude that we are currently experiencing a defining moment for the future of the planet and country. There are undeniable signs of change in Colombia. Six years ago, a Peace Agreement was signed with the FARC guerrilla group. This process was accompanied by a narrative that has been highly valued in the international context. There was important participation of women in the peace talks that culminated in this Agree-

ment. These were both women from the armed group and women from social and cultural movements. We are now experiencing the real possibility of achieving a definitive peace and putting life at the center of everything. Resistance against war and violence is increasing and is expressed in the growing willingness of different groups and the government to enter into peace talks. This is a cause that is gaining ground, especially in the hearts and minds of women. We come from a war that lasted six decades and left us with nine million victims, an internal migration of six million displaced people, and a diaspora that now numbers in the millions. But we are alive and fighting. Everything seems to indicate that a new world order is approaching but we do not yet know exactly what this will involve. We do know that the women of Latin America are leading processes of change. In Colombia we must be part of peace and, at the same time, defend life on the planet.

{ Resistance }

We are in the era of destroying a patriarchy that has been condensed in the old warrior order and has led humanity to a real civilizational crisis. This is why the humanist cultures that have defended life and rights are also in crisis. This crisis is not just environmental and climatic, it is also cultural. We know that no change can occur without taking into account the cultural dimension of life. At the Corporación Colombiana de Teatro, we believe that we have an enormous wealth of cultural experience. This wealth is the result of years of work with women. This work has taught us that culture, while shaping us into who we are, also transforms us for change. This is why we have simultaneously travelled the paths of learning and creation. Because knowledge is useless if it is not linked to sensitivity to life, to women and to all species. This is a new kind of learning. It combines knowledge with creation and advocacy. While learning about the history of women’s struggles, we create plays and performances that tell the story of resistance against the patriarchy, combined with the defense of our lives and our planet. This project is called “Polyphonic Úrsulas, free and wise women”. We once told the author Gabriel García Márquez that his character Úrsula Iguarán no longer belonged to him as an author because we needed her as the inspiration for our leadership schools. Úrsula, from the book “100 Years of Solitude”, is a woman capable of shaping a community and overcoming all unimaginable obstacles. That is

why we named our Polyphonic Schools after her, because they too are free and wise. We are building a community of women leaders in these schools, where knowledge is combined with creation and advocacy for peace. We have decided to embark on the path of advocacy. We are going to adopt peace as our business (which it really is), and be part of the process as if peacebuilding depended entirely on us. This is why we have decided to take to the streets to demand support for peace. We will read poems, play characters and sing to life in order to ward off the pain and death that stalk us. All knowledge must be sensitive in order to move people’s souls,. This is why we will work on knowledge and creation to reach people’s minds and hearts, so that they can think and feel at the same time.

Our purpose is to develop leaders and continue to fight against war and all forms of violence. Our schools train women leaders and seek to influence peace. One of the most serious problems in Colombia is the systematic assassination of social leaders and, subsequently, the enormous difficulties faced by women who wish to exercise leadership in conflict zones. Reaching communities through cultural and artistic actions with a play or a workshop facilitates relationships between leaders. We are developing a working model and methodology based on collective creation. At the same time, we are delivering artistic and leadership training and are always seeking to have an impact on the community.

{ Voices }

AKUBADAURA:

STRENGTHENING INDIGENOUS VOICES Akubadaura defends the human, territorial and cultural rights of ethnic groups in Colombia. Its work includes legal accompaniment, violence prevention and women’s participation in decision-making.

TEXT AND PHOTO: AKUBADAURA

ith the goal of supporting the complex realities faced by ethnic groups, particularly Colombia’s indigenous population, two female lawyers founded Akubadaura in 2012 as a social organisation that defends the rights of indigenous peoples. In a country with an ongoing conflict and historical discrimination against ethnic peoples, Akubadaura provides accompaniment to indigenous communities.

In the Embera Chamí culture, the word akuburu translates as “helpers”. After it was founded, the organisation engaged in dialogue about how it could help make the indigenous movement’s proposals and hopes a reality.

Despite the existence of multiple organisations that seek to protect indigenous communities in Colombnia, there was a clear need to strengthen the defence of ethnic rights and provide training and access to western legal knowledge, such as the right to free and informed prior consultation. Akubadaura is notable for the comprehensive approach it uses when working on these issues and its understanding of the cultural, territorial and gender contexts of the peoples and communities it works with. Through its Gender and Populations work area, Akubadaura focuses on strengthening women’s capacity to participate nd implement advocacy actions in decision-making spaces for public policies that affect them.

The inequalities that affect women are enormous. Historical dynamics have configured a vision in which men assume political and leadership roles while women are often excluded. Women also experience disproportionate victimisation as a result of the armed conflict. Efforts have been made to address the diverse needs and demands of women. Different processes have been implemented in territories to promote women’s rights, prevent violence and strengthen indigenous women’s leadership. With active participation from women in the territories, Akubadaura has analysed and designed a gender approach that guides the organisation’s work. This approach incorporates indigenous peoples’ cosmovision and contributes to progress in different areas.

Akubadaura understands the concept of gender through recognizingthe relationships between men, women and people with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, including their roles, difThere was a clear need to ferences, beliefs, knowlstrengthen the defence of edge and specific needs.

ethnic rights and provide training and access to western legal knowledge.

Akubadaura’s internal document on Gender and Populations (2022) states:

{ Voices }

“The gender approach evident among different indigenous peoples seeks a harmonious reunion between the feminine and the masculine based on the principle of duality, complementarity, correspondence, reciprocity, otherness and proportionality. This approach contributes to the permanence and survival of territories, families and communities in balance with nature and spirituality and requires recognition of the value of others, balance, respect and harmony.” The organisation’s proposal focuses on gender justice and the rights of indigenous women. It seeks to improve their quality of life in collaboration with communities, men, young people, authorities and public officials. Akubadaura recognises the importance of working with diverse actors to achieve an environment that is free of violence and oppression, especially for indigenous women and girls. Gender justice requires the elimination of inequalities and violence, empowering women in decision-making spaces and the design of public policies that contribute to their well-being and ensure non-violence. Akubadaura uses

a range of strategies such as litigation, training, research and communications to achieve these goals. Despite the progress that has already been achieved, it is clear that there is still a long way to go in the construction of collective spaces that respect and value the principles of complementarity, correspondence, reciprocity, otherness and proportionality. These spaces will contribute to the permanence and survival of indigenous territories, families and communities in which the full participation of women is guaranteed. According to statistics provided by the Single Registry of Victims (as of April 2023), in Colombia there are 564,627 indigenous people who have been victims of the armed conflict, of whom 290,565 are indigenous women. Akubadaura is steadfast in its commitment to overcome these barriers and promote a more just and equitable society for all indigenous peoples in Colombia. The main objective of Akubadaura’s project supported by Foku, is to con-

tribute to the deconstruction of social and institutional patterns that perpetuate violence against indigenous women and girls from the Tucano Oriental population group who live in the Panuré Indigenous Reserve in San José del Guaviare. This project also works with the Embera community that participates in the Chocó Departmental Women’s Program in the municipalities of Quibdó and Ungía. The project’s objective is to develop women’s capacities in the areas of participation, advocacy and enforceability of rights in institutional spaces and indigenous communities. The project aims to develop the skills and knowledge of women leaders through political training schools, as well as strengthening investigation and accompaniment for cases of sexual violence. FM

Learn more

The strength of indigenous women’s voices in Chocó to defend their rights: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=c-Xvh6aqaa4&t=5s&ab_channel=AkubadauraJuristas Voices, confidence and the social fabric of indigenous women: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOQS96o1mw4

Regional meeting with indigenous women leaders. Turbo, Antioquia, 2022

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SOCIAL PROTESTS, CHANGE AND PEACE After a long and intense period of protest and social mobilisation, as well as the arrival of a progressive national government that took office a year ago, we continue to face several challenges in the areas of peacebuilding and guaranteeing the lives and safety of young women and transgender people. he period of social unrest in 2021 highlighted at least two realities in Colombia: the socio-econom ic precariousness faced by the majority of the population, specifically young people; and the wide diversity in the different participation and social protest strategies that are generally led by young people in different regions and urban centres. These realities emerged in the midst of a complex context that included: the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on marginalized populations; the violent and bellicose response by the national government to the growing wave of protests that led to the social unrest; failures with implementing the 2016 Peace Agreement; worsening of the systematic violation of human rights; feminicides and transfeminicides; and an increase in the effects of the environmental crisis in the poorest regions, among others.

ment elected by progressive social and popular sectors, represented by Francia Márquez and Gustavo Petro. Colombia is currently facing several challenges in relation to peace building and safety guarantees for women and young transgender people, their collectives and their communities.

It has now been two years since one of the most intense and longest social mobilisations seen in Colombia, which created a significant rupture in the political sphere. In 2022, the country saw the arrival of a govern-

simultaneous peace talks and explorations of possible peace processes proposed by the national government through its Total Peace strategy represent a challenge, as these actions could contribute to the persistence

TEXT AND PHOTO: FONDO LUNARIA MUJER

of armed, social and political conflicts. Undoubtedly, these profoundly complex processes must include the voices and proposals of peasant, indigenous and black communities, young people, women and transgender people, as well as all sectors that have been excluded from national political life.

The first challenge is that a negotiated and political solution to the armed conflict and its different regional configurations continues to be the only way to end the war. The

The second challenge is that a commitment to historical memory is required in order to understand why the war first occurred, why it persists and why the attempts to build Part of our challenge is to peace have failed. This will help different genersustain dialogue and build ations critically relate to actions among diverse our past and will allow us to think together about social movements that how to transform our generate diverse, inclusive, present and future.

hopeful, hopeful and lifeand diversity-defending worldviews.

Third, reforms are required for need the country’s security doctrine and the way in which security policies function in Colombia. This was evidenced by the painful and violent attacks on the humanity of young people who participated in social protests that involved disappearances, murders, threats and eye

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injuries. Some of the priority issues championed by the social mobilisations include reforming the ESMAD, making the police a civilian and non-militarised body, human rights training for the military and the elimination of compulsory military service. Fourth, the current national government represents a triumph for the aspirations of sectors that have been historically oppressed and now seek to broaden and transform Colombia’s political system into a democratic and inclusive one. The challenge during this period is to not lose the autonomous capacity for social mobilisations, support changes that benefit the majority and question the shortcomings and gaps of this government so that it can improve. Fifth, there has been significant growth in ultra-conservative reac-

tions to the gains and changes driven by popular and diverse sectors in favour of human rights and democratic political systems. These criticsmsi have come from different parts of the world. This ultra-conservative and rights-denying perspective is echoed in political cultures that are not easily transformed and are prone to defend fundamentalist, neo-fascist, anti-gender, individualist, racist, ableist, classist, transgender and patriarchal ideas and values. Subse-

quently, part of our challenge is to sustain dialogue and build actions among diverse social movements that generate diverse, inclusive, hopeful, hopeful and life- and diversity-defending worldviews.

Finally, another challenge is to support the mobilising and hopeful voices of young women and transgender people who continue to face multiple obstacles that limit self-expression and the achievement of their dreams. Until the strength, creativity and struggles of young peoColombia is facing several ple have a secure place in challenges in relation to Colombia’s political life, alongside dignified conpeace building and safety ditions for the fulfilment guarantees for women and of their rights, it will be impossible to think young transgender people about change and buildand their collectives and ing a stable, lasting and multi-coloured peace. FM communities.

Madre Monte, San Basilio de Palenque, Bolivar

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IS SOCIAL CHANGE FORGETTING RURAL WOMEN? The presence of peasant women in deliberative spaces is not guaranteeing their effective participation in the projects and laws designed to achieve structural reforms.

TEXT AND PHOTO: CORPORACIÓN JURÍDICA YIRA CASTRO

n 30 June 2023, Vice P r e s id e nt F r a n c i a Má rquez M ina was appointed as the first Minister of Equality in Colombia. This new ministry was one of President Gustavo Petro’s campaign promises, ensuring the inclusion of historically invisible, discriminated and victimized groups in Colombia.

Worry doll exercise that was part of the ”Embracing grief and reconciliation” workshop, 4 and 5 July 2023.

According to the President, the new ministry’s mission is “to guarantee the rights of diverse women, including mothers who are heads of households, children, young people, families and

the elderly, the LGBTIQ+ population, people with disabilities, Afro-descendant, black, raizal, palanquero, indigenous, Roma and peasant peoples”,1

Presidency of Colombia. The Ministry of Equality has to reach the most excluded populations, said President Petro as he swore in Vice-President Francia Márquez as the new Minister of Equality. 30 June, 2023. https://petro.presidencia.gov.co/ prensa/Paginas/El-Ministerio-de-la-Igualdadtiene-que-ir-a-los-mas-excluidos-de-los-excluidos-dijo-Presidente-Petro-230630.aspx

as well as providing assistance to migrant and impoverished populations. The scope of the needs to be met by this ministry is so wide-ranging that the Corporación Jurídica Yira Castro is concerned that none of the proposed objectives can be fully met. In addition, reforms have recently been proposed for Law 731 of 2002, which is known as the Rural Women’s Law. However,

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the leaders of rural social organisations who participated in the design of the original law are not being asked to participate in the reform process. Law 731 was the result of efforts by peasant women to fight for and demand the rights that they cannot access due to their status as women. Part of this struggle was recognising that the government’s proposals for rural and peasant reforms did not specifically address the problems faced by rural women. Although this law exists, it is seen as redundant due to its poor implementation. Based on information contained in the proposed reforms to Law 731, which were presented to Congress on 13 June, 2023, 12.2 million people in Colombia live in rural areas, 48.2% of whom are women. 2 In addition, more than 1.2 million rural households are led by women. 3 According to data compiled by the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE), 67.9% of the rural population that did not have formal employment in 2021 were women. As the DANE observes, it is essential to “identify the needs generated by the globalised world and how rural women can play an important role in society, not just in terms of their household, but also in terms of female entrepreneurship in Colombia”.4

DANE. Situation of rural women in Colombia. October 19, 2021. https://www.dane.gov.co/files/ investigaciones/notas-estadisticas/oct-2021-nota-estadistica-situacion-mujeres-rurales-colombia-presentacion.pdf

Idem.

Congress of the Republic. Gazette 684 of 2023. Whereby Law 731 of 2002 is modified and other affirmative actions for rural women are established. https://www.camara.gov.co/camara/ visor?doc=/sites/default/files/2023-06/Ponencia%20primer%20debate%20pl.%20384%20 de%202023%20%20%28junio%2013%2C%20 %2012-15H.%29%20%282%29.pdf

It is evident that rural women are being invited to deliberative spaces to discuss their rights as a form of tokenistic representation. The mere presence of peasant, indigenous and raizal women in these spaces is not guaranteeing their effective participation in reform projects, nor will it result in the formulation of laws that will lead to a direct improvement in terms of their rights, access to land and employability.

the needs of rural women. These include: i) a lack of national and regional information for analysis; ii) difficulties connecting information about local cases with national statistics; iii) while there are a number of data sources available, none are exclusively focused on rural women; iv) in some cases the available information is not reliable as it has not been triangulated or verified.

While the CJYC understands that there are limitations with the implementation of social inclusion projects that form part of the Petro gover n ment ’s agenda, there are The mere presence of peasant, also opportunities indigenous and raizal women in emerging with the these spaces is not guaranteeing initiatives led by grassroots rural their effective participation. women’s organisations. These include the Centro women in the country’s Judicial and de Pensamiento de Mujeres Rurales y Legislative branches of government re- Campesinas (Rural and Peasant Womspectively,5 this does not necessarily en’s Thinktank), which employs regionmean that there is representation of al researchers who are from peasant the needs of rural women. This is be- communities. cause “between urban and rural areas there are significant poverty gaps, This approach has been established with rural poverty being at least 50% through an alliance between the main higher than urban poverty between rural women’s organisations and net2010 and 2017”.6 works in the country: Rural Women’s Platform of Colombia, Anmucic, TrenThere are a number of barriers affect- zadas, National Association of Peasant ing the design and implementation of Users (ANUC) and the National Artisanal differential public policies that meet Fishing Confederation of Colombia (Comenalpac). These entities have created the Fund for the Promotion of 5 La República. Women’s participation in manaRural Women (Fommur), which was legerial and decision-making positions has only gally registered via government decree reached 39%. 8 March, 2023. https://www.larepublica.co/especiales/dia-de-la-mujer-2023/ in 2021. This Fund was established la-participacion-de-las-mujeres-en-los-carthanks to the efforts of rural women, gos - directivos -y- decisorios - es - de -so lo-39-3562905#:~:text=The%20income%20 who can now directly participate in its of%20men%20in%20top%20level%20posiBoard of Directors following the issutions%20of%20m%20C3%A1%20decision-making%20level%20. ance of Resolution 000156 of 2022 by 6 CJYC et al. First report on rural and peasant women the Ministry of Agriculture. FM Even though by 8 March 2023 there was 50% and 51% participation of

in Colombia, 2019, p. 9. https://bit.ly/3BaK9Ie

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IXHIL WOMEN INCREASE THEIR DENOUNCE

OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE Ixhil women increase their reporting of gender-based violence during the last three years. Asoremi provides legal and psychosocial accompaniment for victims and raises awareness with different key actors in the municipality.

TEXT AND PHOTO: ASSOCIATION NETWORK OF IXHIL WOMEN'S ORGANISATIONS (ASOREMI)

hanks to the intervention by the Ixhil Women’s Network (Asoremi), the creation of the I’x Women’s Ombuds’ Office in 2010 has provided guidance and legal and psychosocial support to female victims of gender-based violence. This Ombuds’ Office also carries out training and awareness raising processes with the target population and key actors, contributing to the prevention and eradication of violence and the application of timely justice.

To date, the I’x Women’s Ombuds’ Office has registered more than 5,000 cases of gender-based violence: 14% involved

psychological violence, 35% physical violence, 20% sexual violence, 15% economic violence and 16% are cases from the specific region where the Office is based. Once the women make their decision to report violence and seek justice, they begin training on a number of empowering topics in relation to their rights. They also receive support to engage in economic activities. This is because one of the main causes of remaining in violent situations is their economic dependence on the perpetrator. Migration is another way in which women experience psychological, sexual and economic violence. This is a growing phenomenon during which family-owned assets and children are left unprotected. For these reasons, Asoremi believes it is important to promote actions that equip survivors with entrepreneurial tools and strengthen a culture of reporting violence.

It is important to prevent gender-based violence through implementing awareness-raising and training processes with different actors, including: pastors of evangelical churches, community authorities/leaders, journalists, civil society organisations and operators of the justice system in order to strengthen access to justice and support the struggle for a dignified life free of violence. The creation of organisational structures at municipal and community levels that facilitate interventions by community authorities and leaders has strengthened and contributed to the protection of victims when they report violence. They receive accompaniment from different people who support the

TO DATE, THE I’X WOMEN’S OMBUDS’ OFFICE HAS REGISTERED MORE THAN 5,000 CASES OF GENDERBASED VIOLENCE: 14% involved psychological violence, 35% physical violence, 20% sexual violence, 15% economic violence and 16% are cases from the specific region where the Office is based.

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March by female survivors of violence, March 2023.

veracity of their complaints. Some cases are referred to other services. These victims are treated with respect in the eight communities where the community roundtables have been organised. The training process with evangelical pastors has involved establishing a space for reflection, collaboration and exchange with Asoremi staff that is focused on mediation, assistance and conflict resolution. This was necessary most of the women participating in the project are evangelical Christians and their religion urges them to put up with violence from their partner and remain silent. When asked why they make this choice, they cite the biblical phrase, ”what God has joined together, let no man put asunder”. Even though they are victims, the message from their religion is that they must continue to endure this violence. Civil society organisations in the municipality and its communities have reported human rights violations com-

Suitable assistance must be provided to victims in order to eradicate violence against women. mitted against the local population, especially women. This has led to jurisdictional bodies carrying out objective investigations of these cases. For example, Juan Raymundo Rivera was sentenced for femicide and rape on 24 September 2020 by the Criminal Sentencing Court for Femicide and Other Forms of Violence against Women and Sexual Violence in the department of El Quiché. This case resulted in a favourable sentence and dignified reparations, which has been extremely significant for the Ixhil people, even though they have not yet been fully implemented. As part of legal accompaniment for criminal and civil cases and strategic

litigation, psychological accompaniment is also provided by Asoremi staff using a culturally relevant methodology. Survivors are invited to join self-care groups for the different types of violence they have experienced as a healing process, which leads to restoration of their rights. Asoremi has a presence in a number of spaces and is heavily involved in promoting and protecting human rights, specifically women’s rights. Asoremi’s goals include demanding justice and protecting victims and survivors of gender-based violence. FM

Learn more

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INDIGENOUS WOMEN OF THE SIERRA NEVADA DE GONAWINDUA WORK TOWARDS ACHIEVING TOTAL PEACE In accordance with the principles of the Law of Origin, internal and external progress is being made with weaving the Mochilón de Cabuya de Fique (Fique bag) and implementing the Intercultural Peace Agenda using a Territorial Approach.

TEXT AND PHOTO: CABILDO INDÍGENA DEL RESGUARDO KANKUAMO

rawing on their own cosmovision, indigenous women from the Sierra Nevada de Gonawindua (SNG) have been weaving the Intercultural Peace Agenda with a Territo-

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rial Approach for more than four years. This work is focused on how peace is conceived by ancestral peoples and the natural contribution made by indigenous women as ancestral cultivators of peace. Their actions have involved meetings, exchanges of experiences, recognition of leadership and training on issues that need to be addressed by society, specifically in the Sierra Nevada region. These concerns will be addressed through using five threads to weave the Mochilón de Cabuya de Fique. We begin with an obvious question: how is peace conceived by the indigenous peoples of the Sierra Nevada de Gonawindúa? Beyond laying down arms or bilateral ceasefires, peace for these peoples is a vision that involves re-establishing balance and harmonies that are affected by different forms of violence and require the connection of spiritual, material, cultural and territorial elements. For these indigenous peoples, peace is harmonisation with Mother Nature and involves the progressive healing of each woman as part of their community. Weaving creates multiple possibilities for the women who share, transcend and represent their territories, resulting in co-governance that ensures good living for all. This thought-weaving transcends meaning through the definitions of the five threads, which is the foundation of the process. The first thread recognises indigenous women as holders of natural practices that are a vital part of the Knowledge System. These women cultivate balance in the framework of the Law of Origin, which has been recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Cultivating peace with Mother Earth is the focus of the first thread, which is called Indigenous Women and Peacebuilding.

The second thread affirms women’s contributions through the ancestral principle of complementarity. This involves harmonisation, political participation and self-government and is reflected in the joint decisions made by authorities. Women weave peace in co-governance and equality with men. The third thread is the identification of other forms of violence against their bodies, their thinking and their practices, which limit the possibility of achieving complete harmonisa-

ments for women in the Sierra Nevada region that have been included in the country’s current National Development Plan (PND). This demonstrates increased legitimacy for women within the Territorial Indigenous Council (CTC) and the self-government of each indigenous group. The project has participated in other intercultural processes including the women from ACIN Weave, different platforms at the national level and engagement with Afro-descendant women’s processes in the Caribbean.

Total Peace involves caring for the seeds of life, young people and women as the bodiesterritories-memories of our grandmothers and ancestors. tion. This thread highlights women’s empowerment through exchanges of experiences, training and recognition of the interconnections of body-territory-memory. The fourth thread reaffirms guarantees for the effective participation of women and families, as well as good living that is achieved through actions to address diverse forms of violence and reharmonise their lives. Good living implies the defence of collective rights. The fifth thread affirms the need to use an advocacy plan for peacebuilding. Progress has been achieved by the National Commission of Indigenous Women (CNMI) in the Permanent Roundtable of Concertation (MPC). These efforts are evidenced by the structural and specific agree-

Actions involving defence and safeguarding are woven together through common commitments as fraternal peoples. An example is the legal strategy for Decree 1500, in which weaving contributes to the defence of life, Mother Earth and the spiritual foundations that form part of the Law of Origin.

Weaving forms part of the ancestral value of being an indigenous woman from the SNG, as it generates peace through Natural Law. These indigenous women can make stitches that contribute to re-harmonisation and allow them to resist and preserve their identity, despite the history of violence in their territory. The weaving of a spiral bag has its own movements and involves thinking, feeling and doing. Together, these threads are unstoppable rivers that revive deserts and transcend borders to defend and cultivate life through the prevention of multiple forms of violence against women and girls. These women are overcoming historical cycles of disharmony and are weaving, rowing and walking towards co-governance and good living through healing their territory. FM

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WOMEN ALLIES FOR THEIR REPRODUCTIVE

RIGHTS AND AUTONOMY - MADERA MADERA aims to strengthen the exercising of sexual and reproductive rights by girls, female adolescents, young women, members of the LGBTIQ+ population, migrants and ex-combatants in Arauca, Bogotá, Boyacá, Chocó, La Guajira and Tolima.

such as: social and gender norms; limited access to comprehensive sexuality education, SRH services and supplies; cases of sexual violence; and child, early and forced marriages and unions.

ministrative Department of Statistics (DANE),2 in 2021 there were 4,895 births to girls aged 10-14, an increase of 594 births for this age group compared to the previous year. Although the national total (NT) birth rate for this population group decreased from 2015 to 2020 (from 3.1 to 2.2 per 100,000 births), in 2020 a number of departments registered birth rates that were higher than the national average, led by Arauca (4.5), then Chocó (3.7) and La Guajira (3.1). At least 15% of these girls are indigenous and Afro-Colombian. Although the NT for adolescent pregnancies (15-19 years) also decreased between 2015 and 2020 from 66.1 to 54.0 per 100,000 live births, there were setbacks in La Guajira, as its rate increased from 75.9 to 88.4, with Arauca (61.7) and Tolima (57.9) also exceeding the NT. Of this population, 9% are from ethnic communities. These pregnancies occur due to social determinants

The lack of comprehensive SRH care, combined with the Covid-19 pandemic, generated an increase in the maternal mortality rate (MMR) by 16 points between 2019 and 2020. The most affected territories were La Guajira (121.6), Chocó (117.4), and Arauca (117.4), all of which exceeded the NT (42.1 per 100,000 live births). There were disproportionate MMRs in border areas. 3

TEXT AND PHOTO: FUNDACIÓN ORIÉNTAME

According to the World Bank’s 2022 report, 1 women have access to just three quarters of the rights granted to men. Inequality affects the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of girls and women and prevents them from exercising their sexual and reproductive rights (SRR). In Colombia, half of all pregnancies are unplanned, and of these, 40% are unwanted. According to data from the National Ad-

World Bank. Approximately 2.4 billion women in the world do not have the same economic rights as men. Press release, March 1, 2022. https://www.bancomundial.org/es/news/ press-release/2022/03/01/nearly-2-4-billionwomen-globally-don-t-have-same-economicrights-as-men

DANE. Births 2021 (data published on 22 December 2022). GOV.CO. https://www.dane.gov. co/index.php/estadisticas-por-tema/salud/nacimientos-y-defunciones/nacimientos/nacimientos-2021

Gender-based violence (GBV) is another expression of inequality. In 2019, 118,469 cases of GBV were reported, representing an increase of 8% compared to 2018. Of these, 48.7% (57,688) involved cases of physical violence, 26.3% (31,141) corresponded to sexual violence and 8.2% (9,724) were reports of psychological violence.4 UN agencies have also reported sexual vio3

DANE. Applied Sociodemographic Statistics Reports, 2021. GOV.CO. https://www.dane. gov.co/files /investigaciones /poblacion/ i n fo r m e s - e s t a d i s t i c a s - s o c i odemograficas/2021-12-20-mortalidad-materna-en-colombia-en-la-ultima-decada.pdf

National Institute of Health. Epidemiological Bulletin, Week 52, 2019. https://www.ins.gov.co/ buscador-eventos/BoletinEpidemiologico/2019_ Boletin_epidemiologico_semana_52.pdf

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reproductive autonomy, in which training is provided to leaders in rural areas, ex-combatants and youth collectives on how to respond to SRH needs in their communities. MADERA will design a pedagogical strategy to transform socio-cultural imaginaries related to GBV, child, early and forced marriages and unions and discrimination. Finally, sexuality information points (PAISEX) will be established for young people. The program’s second component covers access to sexual and reproductive health services, which facilitates access to subsidised services for vulnerable women. MADERA also promotes its training program with social organisations and supports the implementation of the voluntary termination of pregnancy (VTP) service in public hospitals.

ercise this right due to a number of reasons: economic deprivation, lack of information, poor sex education and poor quality or poor provision of services. These are causes that impede the effective enjoyment of their sexual and reproductive rights (SRHR) and undoubtedly truncate their personal and economic development.

This project was designed as a planned response to the challenges posed by the current political climate that affects progress with women’s SRHR in Colombia. It is aligned with the national government’s priorities. President Gustavo Petro has recently created a Ministry of Equality led by Vice President Francia Márquez, who has promoted an agenda focused on rights for women and ethnic communities. MADERA builds on existing frameworks in order to support the implementation of SRHR actions, in accordance with current national sexuality and SRHR policies and Ruling C-055 of 2022. The project’s actions address barriers that limit the exercising of SRHR, as well as the prevention of adolescent pregnancy, forced child marriage and gender-based violence.

MADERA aims to strengthen the exercising of SRHR by girls, female adolescents, young people, adult women, members of the LGBTIQ+ population, migrants and ex-combatants in Arauca, Bogotá, Boyacá, Chocó, La Guajira and Tolima. This will be achieved through two components. The first is sexual and

The project’s intervention encompasses individual, community and institutional spheres. Through articulation between these different areas, comprehensive responses can be developed that strengthen civil society and increase the sustainability of these actions across the country. FM

Awareness-raising activity in a rural community.

Inequality affects the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of girls and women and prevents them from exercising their sexual and reproductive rights (SRR). In Colombia, half of all pregnancies are unplanned, and of these, 40% are unwanted. lence against ex-combatants and their families in their quarterly reports. Gaps in SRH care are experienced by women and LGBTIQ+ people living in migratory and socio-economically vulnerable contexts. This population has no control over their bodies. Even though contraception and the decision to have children are a right, many cannot ex-

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2023 IN PICTURES

Photos FOKUS.

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WOMEN REMAIN COMMITTED TO

BUILDING PEACE IN BOGOTA Since the pandemic, some forms of violence have worsened in Colombia’s capital. The community supports our work with women and young people to eliminate inequality gaps and build paths towards the same goal, which is peace.

TEXT AND PHOTO: CENTRO DE PROMOCIÓN Y CULTURA-CPC

n the 45 years since the Corporación Centro de Promoción y Cultura (CPC) was founded, we have never experienced a political moment like the current situation in Colombia, where the hope of initiating a path to change has filled all dimensions of daily life. Although we knew it would not be easy, we dream of a different country created through democracy, women’s political participation and peace building.

While we are experiencing this historic political moment at a national level, this is also occurring for Bogotá as a city. It is evident that at a generalised

As a large territory, Bogotá is approaching a total population of 10 million inhabitants. We are still receiving people who have been displaced by armed and environmental conflicts, as well as the permanent migratory flow arriving level, we continue to face the impacts from Venezuela. The informal economy of violence. Violent events increased continues to power the city, creating a in our urban and rural communities generalized situation of precariousness during and after the pandemic. This for the majority of the population. Folhas generated unemployment, hunger lowing an analysis of Bogotá’s current and a long list of situations that high- dynamics, we have asked ourselves light inequalities and marginalities. how we can continue to build peace, When we think about Bogotá, we must in partnership with a government that wants to achieve a so-called “Total Peace”, We have asked ourselves in a city that was never how we can continue to build included in the signing of the Peace Agreement peace, in partnership with with the FARC guerrila government that wants to la group. Furthermore, achieve a so-called “Total Bogotá faces the risk of considered a terriPeace”, in a city that was never being tory that is not affected included in the signing of the by the multiple conflicts that the rest of the counPeace Agreement. try experiences. remember that 70% of its territory is rural. These issues are exacerbated for peasants, even though administratively and politically they form part of a complex urban system.

Despite this situation, there is an urgent need to continue to position the issue of peace in the lower socio-economic zones of Bogotá. We are doing this as a women’s organization that

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Women from grassroots organizations in the Locality of Kennedy weave relationships.

contributes to the social, cultural and political transformations of our city through actions in local territories. We currently face the challenge of understanding, debating and analysing the reforms that the current government has proposed. We are looking at how these reforms affect us and how they could benefit us as a society, taking into account our long history of inequalities and injustices. We also face the challenge of continuing to focus on the issue of peace and territorial reconciliation. This work takes place in local scenarios that are affected by the presence of new armed actors who are responsible for acts of violence, threats against male and female social leaders, and murder, with the majority of victims being women and young people.

Women leaders can no longer be the constant targets of threats. There is an important social fabric that needs to be strengthened and new threads need to be woven. Our current tasks and challenges include: engaging in political participation without forgetting our organizational priorities; weaving and articulating actions with other women’s processes and territories; growing locally through strengthening relationships and positioning women’s agendas so that we can have an impact at the district level; and increasing protection, care and self-care. These goals

are not insignificant and we cannot neglect or delegate them. Women leaders can no longer be the constant targets of threats. There is an important social fabric that needs to be strengthened and new threads need to be woven. Maintaining hope is also a challenge. We are living in a new time that is complex and difficult in terms of politics. It is only by working collectively that can we create spaces for new possibilities. This is an intergenerational task. FM Learn more

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ONE YEAR OF FREE ACCESS TO ABORTION IN COLOMBIA In the framework of the first year since Ruling C-055 of 2022, La Mesa por la Vida y la Salud de las Mujeres (La Mesa) and the Oriéntame Foundation share information about what has happened during the implementation of this decision, evidencing progress and challenges with guaranteeing the right to abortion. hanks to the Causa Justa Ruling (C-055 of 2022), women, girls, trans men and non-binary people in Colombia can now terminate their pregnancies for their own reasons until the 24th week of gestation. Following this period, they can terminate their pregnancies in accordance

with the grounds specified in Ruling C-355 of 2006. This historic achievement by the Causa Justa movement has converted the country into one of the most advanced in the region in terms of recognition of reproductive autonomy and freedom. In the framework of the first year of the ruling, La Mesa and the Orién-

Commemoration of the first year of the Causa Justa Ruling

TEXT: MESA POR LA VIDA Y LA SALUD DE LAS MUJERES PHOTO: VICTORIA HOLGUÍN.

tame Foundation provide details about what has happened during its implementation, highlighting progress and challenges with guaranteeing the right to abortion. This is evidenced with data about the free legal accompaniment provided by La Mesa to women who faced barriers with accessing their right abortion between February 2022 and February 2023, as well as data on the provision of sexual and reproductive health services by the Oriéntame Foundation during this same period.

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The data shows that there was no increase in requests for abortion from women with pregnancies that were beyond 24 weeks gestational age. Based on data collected during the provision of this service by Oriéntame, 93% of women underwent the procedure during the first 12 weeks of gestation. Statistics from La Mesa show that 82% of women that received assistance from this organisation requested access to abortion during the first 24 weeks of

effective access to abortion services. This could be a result of the media coverage of the ruling, which generated a higher level of interest in accessing an abortion.

Another improvement was the increase in the percentage of women who obtained the procedure through their EPS (15% among women who received assistance from La Mesa). This may indicate that EPSs are increasing compliance with their obligations regarding the right to The data shows that there abortion. The figure could was no increase in requests also be influenced by the fact that women are more for abortion from women willing to request this with pregnancies that went service from their health beyond 24 weeks gestational service provider.

age during the first year of implementing Ruling C-055 of 2022. gestation, while 18% did so after this period (in accordance with the grounds established in the 2006 ruling). The data shows that due to decriminalization, fewer requirements and more information, women are trying to obtain abortion services as soon as possible. It is important to note that the women who came to La Mesa during the first year following the ruling did so primarily to obtain information: 66% of requests for services were for counselling, while 34% were for legal accompaniment. This evidences a 14% increase of women who attended La Mesa seeking information, and a decrease of 11% in cases that required legal accompaniment through administrative or legal actions to achieve

Finally, and as a notable step forward, there was institutional support for the implementation of the ruling through the issuance of Circular 044 of 2022 and Resolution 051 of 2023 by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. These regulations reiterate the constitutional standards established by the Court and recognized abortion as an essential, free and urgent health service.

WHAT ARE THE FUTURE CHALLENGES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE RULING?

Despite the obligation of immediate compliance with the ruling, some barriers in terms of accessing abortion persist: the lack of available information; the lack of recognition of this right; restrictive interpretations of the ruling made by the Court; and failures in the

STATISTICS FROM LA MESA SHOW THAT 82% OF WOMEN THAT received assistance from this organisation requested access to abortion during the first 24 weeks of gestation, while 18% did so after 24 weeks.

provision of this service. These barriers generally exist in the health sector and have a disproportionate effect on women who are located outside of the country’s main cities, as well as those living in vulnerable contexts. Despite the fact that women are obtaining information about and requesting the service during the first weeks of pregnancy, health service providers continue to impose access barriers and take longer than necessary to provide the service. This highlights the importance of continuing with efforts to ensure access to the grounds that apply after the 24th week. Although the ruling has meant that women are no longer afraid to request abortions from the health system or civil society organisations, providers are not guaranteeing the supply of effective and timely abortions. It is a challenge for EPSs and IPSs to effectively provide this service to all users that request it throughout the national territory, regardless of their health service provider. We call on all relevant actors and entities to consolidate the positive impact of this ruling, completely eliminate access barriers and promote a view of abortion that sees it as part of guaranteeing the right to health. FM

{ Inheritance }

IMPACT OF HEALING FROM VIOLENCE ON WOMEN’S LIVES Violence must be approached through different dimensions: biological, historical, intergenerational, relational, cultural, social, economic, environmental and systemic. aqla was founded in 1996 in the context of the signing of the Peace Agreement following 36 years of internal armed conflict. The aim of this organisation is for the founders to work together and address the racism and discrimination they experience as indigenous women. Kaqla’s mission focuses on “generating actions for well-being and full life without violence being committed against Mayan women and their peoples”. The organisation has primarily used the methodology titled “Rub’eyal Q’akaslemal, paths for the fullness of life for Mayan women and their peoples”, which was designed and validated based on their own experiences and incorporates the Mayan cosmovision. In Guatemala, Kaqla has positioned itself as a reference point for healing women’s traumas as a political strategy. Kaqla has added value by developing a specific therapeutic approach for indigenous women that draws on different elements from

TEXT AND PHOTO: GRUPO DE MUJERES MAYAS KAQLA

the Mayan culture and cosmovision. Kaqla’s approaches and proposals have been validated by the collective experiences of its members, as well as by other women, organisations and communities.

Pedro La Laguna. This strategy highlighted the negative effects of violence on the lives of girls and women, and on In 2022, and as part of the framework our Mayan communities in general. The of the project titled “Healing inter- project recognised the importance of violence reduction and prevention actions so that The project recognised this scourge does not continue in the lives of new the importance of violence generations.

reduction and prevention actions so that this scourge does not continue in the lives of new generations. This is what healing achieves.

nalised violence as a key strategy for the eradication of violence” that was supported by FOKUS, we developed a Protection and Safety Strategy for Girls and Women in the Municipality of San

For those of us who have experiences and histories of violence as significant moments in our lives, if we do not heal these traumas then we stop loving, valuing and believing in ourselves and our capacities. Without healing we do not feel worthy of enjoying the beautiful things in life. We develop a belief that “life is for suffering and the good life

{ Inheritance }

is after death” and that “our happiness depends on God” or on someone else. The results obtained from our participatory design process identified that when a person experiences any type of violence they lose meaning in their life. Throughout Kaqla’s 27 years as an organisation, a number of healing processes have been carried out with women, men and social organisations. Healing cleanses, eliminates, builds and encourages thought about information, attitudes, reactions, actions, beliefs, emotions, etc. Healing allows us to see, feel, think, locate and act in a different way, in alignment with our true selves and without the impact of trauma. Only then can we give the best of ourselves to our own lives and to others. According to participants, the results of the healing processes included ”an

Kaqla has positioned itself as a reference point for healing women’s traumas as a political strategy. Healing favours the strengthening of individuals, families and communities and encourages leadership. increased connection with myself, with loved ones, with the group and with the web of life”, as well as ”better management of emotions by putting into practice basic tools for healing and emotional harmonisation”. Healing strengthens individuals, families and communities, while also supporting leaders and women’s organisations to generate healthier and more assertive proposals that search for meaning in

life. Healing allows individuals to have an increased influence on the achievement of their proposed objectives, results and goals while also contributing to the transformation of collectives and peoples. These processes allow us to heal unconscious loyalties and intrusions from the past, meaning that we let go of the past with love. Healing also contributes to the individual and collective healing of other people and peoples. FM

Learn more www.kaqla.org Kaqla’s social networks: Facebook and YouTube - Mujeres Mayas Kaql; X - @kaqla1, Instagram - somos_kaqla

Some of the activities that form part of Kaqla’s healing processes.

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FORCED MARRIAGES AND UNWANTED PREGNANCIES AMONG GIRLS AND ADOLESCENTS

IN GUATEMALA: AN URGENT REALITY Forced marriage in Guatemala perpetuates poverty and violates human rights, affecting girls and adolescents through unwanted pregnancies. Comprehensive education and laws are essential for eradicating this problem. n Guatemala, forced marriages and unwanted pregnancies affect thousands of girls and adolescents. This problem has taken root in society, generating cultural, educational, economic, legal and religious challenges that hinder progress towards gender equality and limit respect for sexual and reproductive rights in the country. In this context, the Multidisciplinary Group (MG) was established as a political platform for promoting sexual and reproductive rights in Guatemala that seeks transformative changes to the lives of girls, adolescents and women.

Founded in 2006, the Multidisciplinary Group is a coalition of civil society organisations and individuals that are committed to promoting a vision where human rights are fulfilled and sexual and reproductive rights are guaranteed by the Guatemalan government. This

TEXT AND PHOTO: GRUPO MULTIDISCIPLINARIO PARA LA DEFENSA DE LOS DERECHOS SEXUALES Y DERECHOS REPRODUCTIVOS

platform focuses on the health, sexual and reproductive rights of women, young women and girls from ethnic groups, including Mayan, Mestizo and Garifuna populations, located across eleven departments in Guatemala. The organisation’s mission is clear: advocate for the implementation of strategies that ensure access to comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services.

organisations, both nationally and internationally. Through these alliances, the MG seeks to maintain a strong position and advocate for sexual and reproductive rights in a variety of contexts and political scenarios. In addition, the group has established an Observatory of Sexual and Reproductive Rights, which is a mechanism designed to monitor public policies, laws, initiatives and regulations related to sexual and reproducOne of the main actions carried out by tive rights. This Observatory has been the Multidisciplinary Group is building fundamental for measuring progress strategic alliances with civil society with the fulfilment of sexual and reproductive rights through the use Causes of forced marriage of concrete indicators. These and unwanted pregnancies include the school dropout rate caused by pregnancies among girls and among girls and adolescents, medical care for early pregadolescents in Guatemala nancies and victims of forced include sexual violence, maternity, prevention of sexual violence, and others. poverty, normalisation of

gender stereotypes and discrimination.

Access to information is a fundamental pillar in the fight

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temala. Young women’s physical and emotional health are at risk due to their limited access to sexual and reproductive health services and education and a lack of suitable medical care. The influence of religious groups and beliefs on public policy also represents a significant obstacle, as the disproportionate power of these churches means that it is impossible to implement measures based on the real needs of the population.

Members of the Multidisciplinary Group participate in a march for the defence of sexual and reproductive rights as part of their advocacy actions.

against forced marriages and unwanted pregnancies among girls and adolescents. The Multidisciplinary Group works hard to empower these young women with information that allows them to make informed decisions about their bodies and to actively participate in the formulation of public policies. Through comprehensive sexuality education programmes and awareness-raising campaigns, the MG seeks to expand these young women’s knowledge, break down myths and taboos and promote autonomous and empowered decision-making. Current statistics reveal the gravity of the situation. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), more than 30% of Guatemalan girls are married before the age of 18, while 7% are married before they are 15. These marriages often lead to early and unwanted pregnancies, exposing young girls to both physical and emotional risks. According to the Observatory of Sexual and Reproductive Health, a

total of 67,688 births were registered to mothers aged 10 to 19 in Guatemala in 2022. This statistic is a wake-up call that highlights the need for concrete actions to address this problem. Girls and adolescents face a number of challenges in this struggle. Entrenched cultural norms continue to limit the autonomy of Guatemalan girls and young women, perpetuating harmful practices such as forced marriages. The absence of comprehensive sexuality education programs in public education policies also plays a crucial role, as their lack of knowledge impedes young women from making informed decisions about their reproductive health and rights. The intersection of poverty and gender further complicates the situation. Specific policy initiatives are required that simultaneously promote economic equality and women’s empowerment. In terms of health policy, there is a clear need for a comprehensive approach to sexual and reproductive health in Gua-

Public policy reforms are required to make progress with guaranteeing women’s rights in Guatemala and to put an end to forced marriages and unwanted pregnancies. Comprehensive sexuality education is an essential tool for empowering young women as it enables them to make informed decisions. In addition, it is essential that the project contributes to economic equality and female empowerment through its actions as this will reduce the vulnerability of girls and adolescents. Strengthening laws and ensuring their effective implementation are other essential steps in this struggle. FM

Learn more https://www.grupomulti.org.gt/miradordsr https://www.facebook.com/GrupoMultiGt?mibextid=ZbWKwL

References

ICRC (International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). (2017). Child and forced marriage: norms, practices and laws. https://www.icrc.org/es/doc/assets/ files/other/icrc_002_4424.pdf Girls Not Brides - (n. d.). Child Marriage in Guatemala. https://www.girlsnotbrides.org/child-marriage/ guatemala/ Instituto Guttmacher (s. f.). - Estimaciones de embarazo y natalidad adolescentes en Guatemala. https://www.guttmacher.org/es/estados-unidos/ estimaciones-de-embarazo-y-natalidad-adolescentes-en-guatemala Sexual and Reproductive Rights Watch (2021). Monitoring Report on the Fulfilment of Sexual and Reproductive Rights. United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) (n. d.). Child Marriage Data. https://www.unfpa.org/data/ child-marriage

{ Chronicle }

CARTOGRAPHY AND

ART FOR PEACE

Filming in Nupa territory, Tumaco.

Social mapping and audiovisual products are combined to create diverse and inclusive spaces for dialogue that strengthen organisational processes for women and people with diverse sexual and gender identities. ifteen years ago, Cartografía Sur began its work, building paths of change and so cial transformation through education, art and communication. Our conviction to build a fairer and more inclusive country has led us to work in different territories, helping us recognise differences and establish important alliances. In 2023, we moved our gaze

to the southwest region of the country, where there is a significant need to strengthen collective action networks as part of our commitment to peacebuilding. This region of the country is a jewel, rich in cultural diversity, history and traditions. However, it is also the site of conflicts and social challenges that have affected the local population, particularly women and people with

TEXT AND PHOTO: CARTOGRAFÍA SUR

diverse sexual and gender identities. In the midst of this complex context, Cartografía Sur has implemented an innovative strategy titled, ”Cartography and Art for Political Action”, in which artistic dialogue and the creation of maps are powerful tools for strengthening organisational processes, fostering regional networks and peace building.

This work begins with contextual assessments that generate dialogue about the consequences of the armed, social, political and cultural conflicts in this region. The participation and actions of women and people with diverse sexual and gender identities in the region are also encouraged in this process. After examining the results of the dialogues and the parallel collective construction of knowledge, we implemented actions that generated valuable artistic pieces. This helped develop shared languages and contributed to the design of political advocacy tools. This project consists of two fundamental strategies. The first is the collective creation of an illustrated cartography through a meeting with representatives of four departments in the country: Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Chocó and Nariño. This cartography will be the result of dialogue between prominent women leaders in the region and will act as a valuable reflection of their vision and experiences. The second strategy is the implementation of the ”Inverted Periscope” Regional School. This is a training space for young women and people with diverse sexual and gender identities. Topics covered include scriptwriting, creative documentary, photography, sound and video. The objective is for participants to produce four short documentaries by the end of the training program. These audiovisual products will be powerful tools that highlight the region’s history and the commitment to achieving territorial peace demonstrated by communities. This new adventure also generates a significant challenge: ensuring articulation between different organisations and strengthening regional networks. This represents an opportunity to improve relationships that are based on collaboration and mutual support

Red Matamba and Guasá Cartographic Workshop.

By being determined and working together, we are confident that we will reach the desired horizons of peace for the region and the country. between the different organisations that have a presence in the region. By mapping the territories and identifying local organisational challenges with women, and equipping young people in the region with audiovisual production skills, we will establish a solid foundation for working together in the search for territorial peace. The country is currently focused on finding a negotiated solution to the armed conflict. In this context, it is essential that the voices of women and people with diverse sexual and gender expressions are stronger, more articulated and develop proposals to achieve the desired transformation. Cartografía Sur is strongly committed to establishing a creation and articulation space with women, young people and people with diverse sexual and gender ex-

pressions. This approach generates possibilities for strengthening organisational processes with a territorial perspective. We believe that active participation is an essential pillar for building a culture of peace and contributing to a more hopeful future. “Cartography and Art for Political Action” is a powerful initiative that creates new possibilities for strengthening the social fabric, amplifies the voices of those who have been silenced and jointly builds territories of peace. Each step taken in this valuable journey fosters more inclusive national dialogue and promotes a society that values and protects life and diversity. By being determined and working together, we are confident that we will reach the desired horizons of peace for the region and the country. FM Learn more https://cartografiasur.org https://www.instagram.com/cartografia.sur/

{ Interview }

NORWAY IN

COLOMBIA

Interview with the Norwegian Ambassador to Colombia regarding the priorities of Norway in the country and its relationship with the work of FOKUS. FOKUS (FK): What are the central issues on the Norway in Colombia agenda? Nils Martin Gunneng (NM): We have two main objectives in Colombia. The first is peace building, which involves the implementation of the 2016 Final Peace Agreement. Another objective is to contribute to reducing deforestation in Colombia. This is part of a regional policy that we are supporting in all Amazonian countries to mitigate this problem. In addition, we have two crosscutting themes that are incorporated into all of our actions in Colombia. One is to defend human rights and the other is to promote gender equality, specifically women’s rights and their economic and social opportunities. FOKUS (FK): In terms of the participation of women and the LGBTQI+ population, what sort of actions has Norway carried out while accompanying Colombia in peace talks, both the previous negotiations with the FARC guerilla group and the current dialogue with the ELN? NM: It is important to remember that the inclusion of the gender approach in the 2016 Agreement was an immense achievement. This is an important development for all Colom-

bians, as it was the first time that this approach was included in the text of a final peace agreement. We are now supporting the full implementation of the Peace Agreement, and we believe that there is a great opportunity to do this with the national government.

and sufficient public resources for their functioning and implementation.

In relation to the peace process with the ELN, we are drawing on our previous participation in the negotiations with the FARC. Even though the 2016 Peace Agreement was a significant achievement, we acknowledge that the We are now supporting the gender approach was infull implementation of the troduced a little late to Peace Agreement, and we those peace talks. Based on this learning experibelieve that there is a great ence, Norwegian faciliopportunity to do this with tators are now working to raise awareness with the national government. both parties so that this topic is included at the For example, the current administra- start of the new negotiations. It is imtion has made important commitments portant to remember that there are that establish the gender equality and two parties negotiating in this prowomen’s rights agenda as indispensa- cess, not just us as guarantors. ble elements for peace in Colombia. These include the participatory formu- On the issue of “Total Peace”, I think lation of the 1st National Action Plan that there are groups that are very open of Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace to receiving proposals and sharing their and Security and the creation of the ideas on this issue, but it varies. I am new Ministry of Equality and Equity. optimistic. For peace, it is good to be opThe work of this ministry, as well as timistic. The success of the peace talks the institutional commitment to the with the FARC has raised expectations National Action Plan 1325, represent regarding all of the other dialogues that major challenges. They need support are currently on the table.

{ Interview }

Sometimes it is almost impossible to visualise new agreements when it has not been possible to implement everything from the previous Peace Agreement. I think that the national government is aware of this situation. We are supporting the implementation of the Peace Agreement with the FARC and we are optimistic about the reactivation and functioning of the Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement (CSIVI). This includes the special entities established for women and ethnic peoples to monitor the implementation of both the Ethnic and Gender approaches that were included in the Final Peace Agreement. This process involves the

We have two main objectives in Colombia. The first is peace building, which involves the implementation of the 2016 Final Peace Agreement. Another objective is to contribute to reducing deforestation in Colombia. participation of the United States as guarantor and country that accompanies the implementation of the Ethnic Chapter.

The international community is really supporting this process. We know that there are obstacles and difficulties. We have to understand that we are talking about cultural change, and this is going to take time. We recognise that our presence here is longterm and we will continue to support the implementation process. This is not just about implementing a Peace Agreement because we are talking about changing society. This is really a development process that involves the transformation of a country and a culture. In our case, structural changes in Norwegian society also

{ Interview }

took a long time, which means that we understand the impatience. We are talking about something big, not something minor. FOKUS (FK): What issues does Norway consider relevant for sexual and reproductive health and rights in the Colombian context? NM: For us, as well as for our Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anniken Huitfeldt, we recognise that Colombia has a normative framework - Constitutional Court rulings, regulatory decrees, laws – designed to guarantee sexual and reproductive health and rights. However, there are still challenges with providing information about how all people can access these rights. Comprehensive education and communication on this issue is essential to achieve this, with civil society organisations playing a key role in this process. At the same time as supporting projects on sexual and reproductive health and rights, we also monitor policies and obstacles that impede their implementation. These include barriers that affect access to voluntary terminations of pregnancy, which are related to the lack of information and

On the issue of “Total Peace”, I think that there are groups that are very open to receiving proposals and sharing their ideas on this issue, but it varies. I am optimistic. 42

{ Interview }

recognition of Ruling C-055 of 2022, its restrictive interpretation and failures in the provision of this service. For us, there are a number of essential components in this work: comprehensive sexuality education; the right to access safe, effective and affordable contraceptive methods; the right to access quality health services for all dimensions of sexuality without any kind of discrimination; respect for the sexual rights of all people; and the right to express sexuality, sexual orientation and gender identity without any kind of violence or stigmatisation. All of the above take place in a context where there are critical gaps in terms of access and quality of health services between rural areas (e.g. PDET municipalities) and cities. This is why we see the right to health in Colombia as an issue tied to the full implementation of the Final Peace Agreement. FOKUS: What is the Norwegian Embassy’s assessment of FOKUS and its work in Colombia as a platform for Norwegian women’s organisations? NM: In Colombia we share common objectives with FOKUS, which is very positive. We are aware of the work carried out by this Norwegian civil society organization, which makes it easier to articulate actions and support different initiatives. FOKUS is in a sector where there are many challenges in this country, but there are also hopes and opportunities with this government. This is why it is essential that we support FOKUS and other civil society organisations. This relationship is important because we have different roles. As an Embassy, we are here to maintain and reaffirm our bilateral relationship with Colombia and work on our objectives in the broadest

possible way. FOKUS has the freedom to be independent from the Norwegian and Colombian governments, which gives the organization more flexibility and possibilities to carry out oversight actions. This role is very important. Our Embassy is small. We have about 20 staff, which is why we work through other partners. FOKUS carries out direct work with communities, which we value, and they provide us with information about how civil society is working on the same issues. It is also important to mention FOKUS’ participation in the Gender Roundtable of International Cooperation because we have different but complementary roles in this entity.

As a recommendation, we believe that it is important to work with this government to help strengthen the different structures and public support systems for women in the country. For example, we need to understand the government’s thinking on a number of issues: how this new Ministry of Equality and Equity is being conceived; the role of women in “Total Peace”; what the Office of the High Commissioner for Peace is thinking about the role of women and how we can help their work; and how the Vice-Presidency is organising agendas for women. Obtaining answers to these questions will help us develop a concrete understanding of the administration’s approach to this agenda, allowing us to work together in the best way possible because this is a government that has a strong interest in doing good things.

The commitment to equality and women’s rights must continue to permeate and transform all social spaces, including work with community and men’s organisations in both private and public spheres. We are here to support them over the long-term. FOKUS is recognised as an international organisation by the women’s movement in Colombia. Their history of working with women in the country is not just highly appreciated within Norwegian cooperation, but also translates into a responsibility to continue working on women’s rights, the gender approach, with the LGBTIQ+ population and also with men.

FOKUS: What message would you like to share with Colombian women and girls who are working towards the guarantee, enjoyment and exercise of human rights? NM: The most important message is that they can count on Norway as a government and as women in civil society. This solidarity is our starting point. A second message is that their work, after decades of struggle for their rights, will continue to have an indisputable impact on decisions made by public institutions. This will result in cultural changes that improve lives in communities. The commitment to equality and women’s rights must continue to permeate and transform all social spaces, including work with community and men’s organisations in both private and public spheres. We are here to support them over the long-term. FM

{ Gender }

WOMEN’S BODIES

FREE OF VIOLENCE A life free of violence for women must be a formative process supported by families, civil society and the national government as the main provider of human rights programs and transparent access to the justice system. hen we promote women’s human rights, we radiate a light of hope, joy, love, peace and the recovery of a full life. The promotion of human rights through ongoing training has been indispensable because it enables women to carry out advocacy actions in the justice system. There have been historical weaknesses WITH the justice system that have contributed to AN underreporting of violence against women. Reporting violence continues to be a challenge because there are no guarantees for suitable assistance from the relevant authorities for women and indigenous women.

In the northern region of Huehuetenango (Guatemala), specifically in the municipalities of Santa Eulalia, San Mateo Ixtatán, San Juan Ixcoy, San Miguel Acatán and Santa Cruz Barrillas, reporting of violence committed against women has increased. This is the result of promoting human rights with women’s groups and leaders. Despite the increase in reports, operators of the justice system are not aware of the realities experienced by women and their children. In the justice system, the reporting and prosecution of violent crimes occur in

conditions that violate the dignity of women. Women are sent back to live with the perpetrator after reporting the violence, which tells them that they must continue to put up with this treatment. These types of decisions result in increases in sexism, threats and mockery. There is no justice! The living conditions experienced by the children of women who are victims of violence continually deteriorate. Most of these children suffer from malnutrition, poor academic performance, non-attendance and an increase in child labour. The Aq’ab’al Women’s Association has identified that auxiliary mayors and Urban and Rural Development Community Councils (Cocodes) favour the perpetrators of

TEXT AND PHOTO: AQ’AB’AL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION

gender-based violence. A clear example of this occurred in one of the communities in Santa Cruz Barillas, in which a perpetrator asked the community authorities (Cocodes or the auxiliary mayor) for a reference testifying to their good behaviour. A similar reference was used in the court case brought by a mother that demanded they pay child support. Cocodes and Auxiliary Mayor agreed to provide the father with the reference, the Peace Judge accepted it and the case against the perpetrator was dismissed. In San Mateo Ixtatán, a pregnant woman with a baby in her arms was denied

{ Gender }

child support by the father and went to court to obtain it. When the father of the child learnt that the mother had made the report, he stole her personal identity document (DPI), which is an essential requirement for any procedure. She informed the court about what he had done, but an official from the Peace Court said that they would pay for a new identity document so as “not to bother” the perpetrator. These types of actions increase distrust in the justice system. Who can we trust? On 29 July in the municipality of Santa Cruz Barillas, many families were victims of landslides that destroyed their homes. It should be noted that these families do not receive a fair wage for the work they do, which means they have to live in rented accommodation. The inhabitants of these houses included women who were in the process of applying for child support for their children. They were also fighting for access to decent housing because they lived on the banks of the river, a location that put the lives of their children in danger. Despite these events,

Organisations help ensure that women have access to a justice system that protects their rights and those of their children. the Peace Court did not award child support to the women who lost their homes. All of these issues represent threats to women’s lives and safety. Through the program titled “Weaving Paths to Empowerment”, the Aq’ab’al Women’s Association, carries out actions with women, girls and adolescents that allows them to acquire tools to defend women’s rights. This program promotes a culture of reporting violence and fulfilment of the right to transparent justice. In the municipalities where Aq’ab’al is located, there are a significant number of women who are increasingly interested in obtaining information and contributing to the prevention of violence. They seek to challenge the justice system so that cases are resolved with

transparency and in accordance with the conditions in which women and their children live. We are committed to continuing to raise awareness about human rights with the new government administrations (2024-2028) so that they can contribute to violence prevention through programs designed for women, girls and adolescents. For this reason, we must work collectively to stop violence against women, combine forces and transmit the message of “We are all equal in rights and obligations”. Both mums and dads are responsible for their children. Children and young people deserve a future where men and women take responsibility for their actions, so that the children of today become the responsible adults of tomorrow. Women have the right to decide about their bodies. They are not exclusively responsible for taking care of others because the family should be a democratic and organised space. Women sustain lives and processes through their community, family and institutional spaces. FM

Election of the Zonal Coordinator and the 30 year commemoration of Tejido Mujer.

WEAVING THREADS: CHALLENGES FOR INDIGENOUS WOMEN IN PEACEBUILDING Through their bodies, territories and identities, the Nasa indigenous women of northern Cauca weave peace and accompany training, research, systematisation and political advocacy processes. TEXT AND PHOTOS: TEJIDO MUJER CXHAB WALA KIWE- ACIN / CORPORACIÓN DE APOYO A COMUNIDADES POPULARES CODACOP

he Nasa indigenous women from northern Cauca who are members of the Cxhab Wala Kiwe (CWK) Women’s Weave organisation are strategic partners with Codacop

in the implementation of the project titled “Nasa indigenous women, weavers of peace from their bodies, territories and identities”. This project is being supported by FOKUS during the 2023-2027 period. Information about the initial implementation period is detailed below. A fortunate coincidence is that the first three years of the project coincide with the new political scenario that has been generated by the election of the current government headed by President Gustavo Petro. This is an unprecedented alternative government that was elected due to the forcefulness of its proposal

for change. Its work begins with the formulation of the National Development Plan 2022-2026: “Colombia, world power of life”, which in large part challenges traditional policies and programs and promises changes to environmental and rural public policies. A proposal for a just energy transition is at the centre of this transformation. President Petro is accompanied by Vice-President Francia Márquez. The Vice-President is a black woman, who is a defender of rights and has been widely recognised for her leadership in defending her territory against criminal actions perpetrated by extractive companies. She brings comprehensive visions of change to the government that interconnect territories, peoples, uses, customs and biodiversity. As might be expected, the promise of change has made the challenges even more complex and the road to compre-

{ Inheritance }

hensive peace more uncertain. Despite this situation, there is still hope and a desire to make progress towards a life in peace. Women continue to dream of inhabiting bodies and territories that are free from all types of violence. This commitment is a key driving force in the work carried out by Tejido Mujer. As part of the so-called “Total Peace” negotiations, the national government has engaged with illegal armed groups and entered into talks with the ELN guerrilla group. During this period, violence has worsened: new groups are appearing and all of them are competing for territorial control and illegal economies; threats and murders of defenders and leaders are increasing; femicides are on the rise; and there is no shortage of threatening pamphlets. These events increase the insecurity that affects women’s political-organisational work and indigenous-led actions. This project will involve Codacop accompanying and equipping Tejido Mujer with pedagogical, conceptual and political tools that favour participation, organisation and the defence of women’s rights. The project will implement training, research, systematisation and political advocacy actions. All of these tasks will support the work of

indigenous activists in different spaces located in the twenty-two indigenous reserves that form part of the CWK. The design of the National Action Plan (NAP), which responds to Resolution 1325 of the United Nations Security Council - the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, is one of the main challenges that needs to be addressed by the Colombian state’s feminist commitment. This Agenda must be built with female

document. The challenge is to localise the Plan in Colombia’s different territories: ensure that it is known, internalised, appropriated and, of course, implemented. This will involve an entire political agenda that requires strengthening citizen oversight as part of the implementation process. We see this as the agenda at the heart of our FOKUS project.

Encounters between women have an impact on violence in a powerful way. This is why This focus on the training, advocacy and research activities are fundavindication of indigenous mental for peacebuilding. women’s rights is based on The project’s priority acthe first point of the Peace tions in this area include: Agreement, Comprehensive strengthening the National Indigenous Women’s Rural Reform, Network, an initiative that emerged from this work participation, which represents an enor- with FOKUS; accompanying women’s participation in decision-making, conmous challenge for women, the feminist movement and particularly indigenous flict prevention and conflict resolution; women. This latter group must be in- the fight against climate change as a volved in the design of the Plan so that collective responsibility; strengthenit fully incorporates a differential and ing the Observatory of Violence against crosscutting ethnic approach with spe- Indigenous Women and its documentation and accompaniment of women cific measures for this population. and girls who are victims of violence; However, the real work goes beyond and carrying out research on land acparticipating in the formulation of this cess and tenure for indigenous women. Codacop and Tejido Mujer are committed to implementing these activities in accordance with the principles of solidarity and peer-to-peer collaboration. Accompanying women so that they have a voice and autonomy is an inspiring challenge. Training, advocacy and research are fundamental areas that women use to promote and sustain their actions while prioritising self-care for their bodies. FM

Learn more https://youtu.be/UIB_w-Qh5BU

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THE RESOLUTION 1325 ACTION PLAN WILL BE A REALITY SOON Corporación Humanas, with support from FOKUS, strengthens its participation in dialogue between civil society and the national government. The founders of Corporación Humanas are committed to the implementation of Resolution 1325. nited Nations Security Council Resolution 1325, adopted in the year 2000, recognises the fundamental role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts and the consolidation of peace and security.

The participatory design of the National Action Plan (NAP) for Resolution 1325 is now a reality. After 23 years since the Security Council issued the first resolution for the Women, Peace and Security Agenda, Colombia is now in the process of formulating a NAP. The National Action Plan aims to ensure the effective and full participation of women in all decision-making processes related to peace and security, as well as preventing and protecting women and girls from gender-based violence. Since its foundation, Humanas has monitored the fulfilment of commit-

ments to implement Resolution 1325 in the country. The organisation has used its experience in knowledge management and activism to ensure that the Colombian state complies with its provisions, as well as those of subsequent resolutions. This work has the goal of guaranteeing comprehensive security and territorial peace for women in Colombia who have been direct victims of the armed conflict.

Colombia Centro Regional de Derechos Humanos y Justicia de Género

TEXT AND PHOTO: CORPORACIÓN HUMANAS

This year, Humanas has made considerable progress with consulting a diverse range of women across the country. We have received support from Alliance 1325 and the Impulse Committee in the areas of methodological guidance, advocacy and collective communication that can strengthen the work carried out by our feminist member organisations.

We have highlighted the collective contributions of rural, indigenous, black, Afro, raizal, palenquero, lesbian, bisexual and transgender women from Colombian territories in the construction of the NAP 1325. This is a process in which experiences, knowledge and proposals are woven together to strengthen the national government’s actions so that the Women, Peace and Security agenda becomes a territorial reality.

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We continue to work collectively to ensure that women’s voices are heard in macro-regional events, population forums and territorial meetings, and that the Action Plan successfully implements women’s peace and security agendas.

violence. Specifically, we have argued that the NAP must be articulated with the Peace Agreement, the Implementation Framework Plan (PMI) and the 2022 – 2026 National Development Plan “Colombia, power of life”.

Undoubtedly, women’s participation must be effective and active. In order to achieve this, we have established the following concrete action areas in different consultative scenarios: political participation; social leadership; the defence of women’s human rights; and women’s recognition as caregivers.

In our opinion, the NAP must be articulated with public policies that guarantee women’s safety, as well as with current regulations designed to ensure that women enjoy a life free of

#Womenwith1325 #Resolution1325

SINCE ITS FOUNDATION, HUMANAS HAS MONITORED THE FULFILMENT OF COMMITMENTS TO IMPLEMENT RESOLUTION 1325 IN THE COUNTRY. The organisation has used its experience in knowledge management and activism to ensure that the Colombian state complies with its provisions, as well as those of subsequent resolutions. This work has the goal of guaranteeing comprehensive security and territorial peace for women in Colombia who have been direct victims of the armed conflict.

Learn more

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLchz6fSXsusuWsn4G0F6Dz63kd9curcSg

The Impulse Committee is implementing the NAP roadmap.

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LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS. GLOBAL IMPACT The work and experiences from our partners in the region is a great asset to FOKUS also outside of Latin America, and I hope we can continue to foster such synergies.

TEXT AND PHOTO: FOKUS EN NORUEGA

t is more than 25 years ago that FOKUS was established as a platform for partnership between women’s organizations in Norway and in the global South. Although a lot has changed since then –in the international development cooperation, in the global feminist movement and in FOKUS, the approach remains the same: To strengthen women’s rights through partnership with locally based organizations. Gender equality has advanced significantly in the world the last three decades, including in Latin America: Women’s political participation has increased, there are legislation against gender based violence in more countries, more women get education, more women have the right to and the access to Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and there is a greater acceptance of the

LGBT community. One thing that hasn’t improved much, though, is the support to women’s organizations. It remains embarrassingly low, and it is a threat to the results achieved.

ces from our partners in the region is a great asset to FOKUS also outside of Latin America, and I hope we can continue to foster such synergies.

Moreover, our setup in a time where localization in international aid is increasingly debated responds well to the quest for shift for power and decolonization. But let us be honest: As long as the cooperation is founded on donor conditions, in our case the Norad framework agreement and steered from the North, there is an asymmetry in the power relations. Even though we have the In the global feminist regional office with local movement and in FOKUS, the employees only. Even though we support civil approach remains the same: society organizations To strengthen women’s rights locally. Even though we have an intersectional through partnership with approach. But I do believe locally based organizations. that these conditions constitute a very good against women and girls, SRHR, eco- starting point for discussing this further, nomic participation and wWomen, and it is one of the discussions I would Peace and Security across Colombia like to introduce when we will revise and Guatemala. We have high expec- our strategic plan next year some time. tations to increased cooperation, more We need to take a close look at our exchange and stronger support to our strategy to see if it is still fit for purpose, partners in both countries following i.e. building strong case for the cause of this change. The work and experien- women’s rights and gender equality. FOKUS recently signed a new 5 year framework agreement with Norad (Norwegian agency for development cooperation). We continue to invest in women’s movements in Latin America and East Africa. The Colombia office is turning into a regional office covering programs on eliminating violence

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And it is needed. As you know too well, not all embrace the progress made. When power holders are challenged we should expect as much. Who is better to stand up against those efforts than women’s organizations themselves? Who is better fit to strategize in the face of anti-feminist repression than

tional income to international aid. But in 2022 the share fell to 0,86%. And about 10 % of this budget is covering domestic costs connected to refuges from Ukraine.

We need to demonstrate our relevance, and mobilize support – even financial support. A recurring issue is the 10 % deductible required to receive Norad support. We are doing what we can to find sponsors in Our partners have Norway willing and able something to offer – across to take on such financial responsibility, but we also and beyond FOKUS. Women rely on efforts from partners. We are grateful for in Ukraine can learn from the achievements so far, Colombians about how because it is a precondition to implementing our plans to prepare for a peace and projects.

negotiations.

the organizations and human rights defenders operating in that context? And not defensive, but also continuing to move the agenda forward as we have seen Causa Justa has done with decriminalization of abortion in Colombia. At the same time, long term international development cooperation – such as women’s rights and civil society support is under pressure. The need for humanitarian aid increases steadily at the expense of long term aid, culminating with the current war in Ukraine, making it the largest recipient of Norwegian aid. That is a fact for the Norwegian development aid budget as well. Since 2005, Norway has been one of few countries that has allocated 1 % of the gross Na-

I truly believe that FOKUS – is positioned well manage current challenges. We have accumulated knowledge and experiences that are needed globally. Our partners have something to offer – across and beyond FOKUS. Women in Ukraine can learn from Colombians about how to prepare for a peace negotiations, how to get involved and what to do in different stages. FOKUS can facilitate dialogue between indigenous women in and outside of Latin America. The work to protect and promote women’s SRHR can benefit from progress made in the region. By fostering cooperation and coordination within the international feminist movement, utilizing the diversity of organizations in the quest for gender equality, FOKUS will remain important – in Norway and in Latin America. FM

Sylvi Bratten is the new Executive Director at FOKUS. Bratten comes from a position as Adviser in Gender Issues at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), the world’s largest regional security organization. Her main responsibility was gender mainstreaming economic and environmental projects and activities. She also worked on promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment, including the Women, Peace and Security among participating States. Sylvi previously worked within the Analysis, Development and Communications unit at FOKUS, especially on Business and Women’s Human Rights. She has also served as political adviser in the Norwegian government and parliament.

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