Publication

This report addresses the establishment of new paramilitary groups following the disbandment of the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC). The paper discusses the rearming and continued existence of former AUC paramilitary groups, their connections to drug trafficking and criminal organizations and the state's response. The paper assesses the nature of the paramilitary groups, presents case studies for the regions of Norte de Santander, Nariño, Atlantic Coast and Medellín and summarizes the state's response measures. The paper calls for a comprehensive strategy to confront the emerging groups and criminal organizations.