EAA Foundation Condemns Violence in Colombia and Urges the Protection of Education
Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global foundation for education and development, strongly condemns the outbreak of violence in northeastern Catatumbo region, north-east Colombia, which has claimed the lives of more than 80 people, injured dozens of civilians and displaced thousands.
The ongoing violence by armed groups , occurring amid a stalled peace negotiations with the government, has led to the indefinite suspension of schools, with classrooms converted into emergency shelters for families fleeing their homes.
Education in Colombia has been under attack for decades. In recent years, violence against schools, students, and teachers has increased alarmingly, exacerbating the country’s educational challenges. According to the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA) 2024 report, armed violence and forced confinements in northern Colombia prevented at least two million students from attending classes in person during 2022 and 2023.
EAA Foundation calls on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve their disputes. Education must not become a casualty of conflict, and efforts must focus on protecting learning spaces and providing uninterrupted access to quality education for all children.
Colombia stands at a pivotal juncture in building peace after decades of war. Research from UNICEF by FHI 360 underscores that equitable, quality education plays a critical role in reducing the likelihood and duration of conflict and fostering sustainable peace.
Since 2019, EAA Foundation remains steadfast in its commitment to Colombia, working through strategic initiatives to enhance access to, and delivery of equitable quality education for out of school children, strengthen education data collection, and empower youth.
Globally, EAA Foundation has reached over 22 million children and youth, including more than 7 million out-of-school children affected by conflict.
For more information, contact EAA Media Specialists.
