More than one month into the ongoing crisis in Colombia’s Catatumbo region, civilians continue to face an increasingly dangerous and unstable reality. Escalating violence – driven by fighting between armed groups – has led to mass displacement, leaving tens of thousands struggling to find safety and support.
“Here in Colombia, we are seeing the largest number of people fleeing in such a short time, and unfortunately, the humanitarian crisis is only worsening as clashes are still occurring in rural areas. Due to the violence, tens of thousands have fled their homes. Those who have stayed are stuck in their homes, scared to leave,” said Catalina Vargas, CARE Colombia Country Director. “In times like these, women and girls remain particularly vulnerable to sexual violence and exploitation, while access to humanitarian aid remains severely restricted, especially in rural areas.”
More than 86,500 people have been affected by the conflict to date, with at least 54,000 displaced. Many have sought refuge in overcrowded shelters in urban centers like Cúcuta, Ocaña, and Tibú, while others remain trapped in conflict zones, unable to escape due to landmines, targeted attacks, and other safety risks. As communities struggle to accommodate the influx of displaced people, already scarce resources are being stretched to their limits. The breakdown of peace talks and an increased military presence have further deepened uncertainty, raising fears of worsening violence in the weeks and months ahead.
For many displaced people, the journey to safety has left them feeling vulnerable and uncertain about the future. Maria, 22, fled from La Gabarra after violence broke out. Originally from Venezuela, she had lived in the region for three years, working to support herself. Now, she is stranded in Cúcuta struggling to survive.
“I can’t go back because I’m too scared. We walked in a group for six days to get here. I just want to have a check-up for my pregnancy, but I couldn’t bring my documents, and I don’t know anyone here in Cúcuta,” she shared.
In response to the crisis, CARE Colombia – already present in this region near the Venezuelan border supporting migrants and host communities – has provided critical aid including psychosocial and legal support, dignity and maternity kits, and multipurpose cash assistance. In the months ahead CARE will assist 15,000+ displaced individuals, particularly those in Cúcuta and Ocaña.
The response will prioritize protection for women and children facing violence, and reproductive health services. All of this work involves working closely with local partners, including Corprodinco and Profamilia, and coordinating efforts with Cúcuta’s Mayor’s Office, to ensure an inclusive and community-centered approach.
“Thousands of women – many who are pregnant and breastfeeding – and children, face a silent struggle for dignity and hope. Forced to leave their homes in search of protection and access to their rights, they live in conditions of extreme vulnerability that require an urgent and effective humanitarian response. A strong commitment to provide humanitarian assistance and advocate for comprehensive solutions that guarantee their rights is essential,” said María Contreras, a staff member at Corprodinco.
“As the crisis worsens, we are committed to strengthening safe spaces and activating protection pathways to reduce violence against women and girls and exploitation risks. However, a major funding gap threatens the continuity of these life-saving efforts. The people of Catatumbo cannot face this crisis alone — immediate action is needed to protect vulnerable communities, restore dignity, and prevent further suffering,” said CARE’s Vargas.
