Colombia - April 2026

An escalation in armed violence in late April has raised concerns regarding the security environment ahead of Colombia’s 31 May presidential election. Dissident groups of the dissolved FARC reportedly carried out at least 26 coordinated attacks involving explosives and drones, including a bombing along the Pan-American Highway on 26 April that resulted in the deaths of 21 civilians. The violence reflects a broader deterioration in security conditions, with 48 mass killings (of three or more people) recorded nationwide by the end of April -- already surpassing half of the total registered in 2025. Analysts suggest that armed groups may be seeking to consolidate territorial control and strengthen their political leverage in anticipation of a possible change in government. The events have triggered a widespread concern about voter intimidation, restrictions on campaigning and movement, and the impact on electoral participation in affected areas.

Sources: AP News, Rio Times, The Guardian, NPR