PREVENT DISPLACEMENT OF FISHERS’ COMMUNITY [Colombia 16.25]

Dear Mr. Director,

I am writing to express my deep concern about the risks faced by the members of the Federation of Artisanal, Environmentalist, and Touristic Fishermen and Women of Santander (FEDEPESAN), particularly those who carry out their fishing activities in the lake of Ciénaga de San Silvestre as well as the rivers Sogamoso and Magdalena, Caño San Silvestre, Caño Rosario, and Quebraza El Zarzal, in the Barrancabermeja area.

I am deeply concerned that, on February 15, 2025, the fishermen and women of FEDEPESAN announced that they felt forced to leave their territory due to the violent pressure they have endured for years and due to the lack of attention and protection from authorities.

FEDEPESAN members face multiple forms of harassment, sometimes for extortion, other times because they are seen as obstacles to armed groups seeking control of the region’s lakes and rivers. Additionally, they have been attacked after denouncing water pollution or potential acts of corruption that undermine environmental policies in their territory. Under these circumstances, FEDEPESAN members fear going out to fish, leaving them unable to earn an income or provide food for their families.

Considering the National Police’s duty to maintain conditions that allow people to exercise their rights and freedoms, I urge you to take immediate and effective action to protect FEDEPESAN members and ensure their safety, through measures that must be planned, implemented, and evaluated in consultation with FEDEPESAN’s members.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]