Publication

This report examines the demobilization of paramilitaries in Colombia, which is drawing to a close in March 2006. The authors warn that if the Colombian government does not change its policy on the demobilization of paramilitaries, it risks prolonging the 40-year armed conflict and damaging democracy. It is argued that, despite its shortcomings, the July 2005 Justice and Peace Law could be an important vehicle for protecting Colombia's democracy against dangerous paramilitary and criminal interference. The dismantling of the paramilitaries' criminal power structure and justice for their victims are considered to be important elements for national stability.