Colombia: 85 social leaders murdered so far in 2026, says Indepaz

The escalating violence in Colombia has claimed another life, bringing the total number of social leaders and human rights defenders assassinated this year to 85. The latest victim, Arnobio Pérez, was the president of the Community Action Board in the Zea neighborhood of Pereira, located in the Risaralda department.

Pérez, also a member of the U Party, was known for his work on community initiatives. He was attacked by armed assailants on a street in Pereira on Thursday and died at the scene. The assassination highlights the persistent dangers faced by community organizers and activists in the country.

This killing occurs despite previous warnings from the Ombudsman's Office. In 2020 and 2022, the office issued alerts about the growing risk in the region, citing the strengthening of armed groups and criminal networks that exert territorial control. These groups include the Gaitanista Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AGC), also known as the Clan del Golfo, as well as criminal gangs like La Cordillera, La Oficina, and Los Rolos.

The Ombudsman's Office has also reported ongoing issues such as the recruitment and use of minors, restrictions on movement, and an increase in violence. These persistent threats underscore the urgent need for reinforced institutional actions to prevent and protect vulnerable populations.