Sure! Here’s the translation into American English:
The intensification of violence and the increasing humanitarian needs in Colombia are threatening the progress made in the protection and integration of displaced populations in the country. This situation severely impacts the most vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
Colombia faces one of the most serious displacement crises in the world, with over seven million internally displaced people and nearly three million Venezuelan refugees and migrants, along with more than 500,000 Colombians who have returned to the country. The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has been providing assistance to these populations for years, highlighting Colombia as a model of regional solidarity towards those fleeing violence.
However, the decrease in funding has forced UNHCR to warn about the possible suspension of essential services, which could reverse years of progress in the stability and integration of these communities. William Spinder, the agency’s spokesperson, has pointed out that various programs have had to be scaled back or halted, undermining efforts to achieve self-sufficiency for refugees and displaced persons.
The Catatumbo region, on the border with Venezuela, has become one of the areas most affected by the lack of resources. Recent clashes between armed groups have forced the displacement of more than 63,000 people, setting a record in the history of displacement in Colombia. Despite the rise in violence, UNHCR has been compelled to stop the distribution of basic relief supplies.
The future of long-term stabilization for the country is also at risk. UNHCR has suspended its support for the legalization of informal settlements promoted by the government, an initiative that ensures access to property rights and basic services for over 105,000 people. Without this support, many of these communities continue to live in precarious conditions.
Children are among those most affected by the lack of funding, as they are at risk of being recruited by armed groups. The documentation of more than 500,000 Venezuelan migrants is also threatened, hindering their access to medical care, education, and legal employment, which increases their vulnerability to exploitation.
In response to this alarming situation, UNHCR has made an urgent call to the international community to increase its support and provide the necessary funds to continue its operations in Colombia. The agency needs $118.3 million to carry out its work this year, while the Regional Response Plan for Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants requires $1.4 billion, of which only 4.6% has been secured.
via: MiMub in Spanish
