UN Expert Mechanism to Assess Policing Practices and Racial Justice in Colombia

During the ten-day mission, the delegation will travel to Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Quibdó — regions selected for their social, demographic, and institutional relevance.

The United Nations' International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement (EMLER) will undertake an official country visit to Colombia from 4 to 14 May 2026, marking a significant step in evaluating law enforcement practices and their impact on racial equality and human rights.

The mission, led by Mr Victor Rodriguez Rescia, will focus on examining Colombia's legal and institutional frameworks governing the use of force by law enforcement, with particular attention to their alignment with international human rights standards.

Focus on Accountability and Racial Justice

A central objective of the visit is to assess how Colombia addresses allegations of excessive use of force and other human rights violations — especially those affecting Africans and people of African descent, who are often disproportionately impacted.

The Mechanism will review:

• National laws and policies regulating police conduct

• Practical implementation of use-of-force standards

• Mechanisms for accountability, justice, and redress

• Safeguards against discrimination and racial bias in law enforcement

The visit forms part of a broader UN effort to promote equitable policing systems and strengthen protections for vulnerable communities.

Nationwide Engagement with Key Stakeholders

During the ten-day mission, the delegation will travel to Bogotá, Cali, Cartagena, and Quibdó — regions selected for their social, demographic, and institutional relevance.

High-level meetings are scheduled with Vice President Francia Márquez, along with other senior government officials, representatives of law enforcement agencies, and members of the criminal justice system.

The experts will also engage with:

• National human rights institutions

• Civil society organisations

• Community leaders and affected individuals

• Representatives of Afro-descendant communities

In addition, the delegation aims to visit a law enforcement facility and a prison, providing direct insight into operational conditions and practices on the ground.

Evidence-Based Review and Public Input

The mission is informed by extensive preparatory research, including submissions received through a public call for inputs. This approach ensures that the assessment reflects a wide range of perspectives, particularly from those directly affected by law enforcement practices.

Officials say the findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of systemic challenges and opportunities for reform.

Preliminary Findings to Be Shared in Bogotá

At the conclusion of the visit, the Mechanism will present its preliminary observations during a press conference scheduled for 14 May at 10:30 a.m. local time at the United Nations Human Rights Office in Bogotá.

The briefing will be open to accredited journalists, who must register in advance.

Comprehensive Report to Follow

A detailed country report, including findings and recommendations, will be submitted to the UN Human Rights Council during its 63rd session in Geneva (September–October 2026).

The report is expected to provide actionable guidance for strengthening accountability, improving policing practices, and advancing racial justice in Colombia.

Strengthening Global Oversight of Law Enforcement

The visit underscores the UN's ongoing commitment to addressing systemic racism and promoting equality in law enforcement systems worldwide.

By examining Colombia's progress and challenges, the Mechanism aims to support reforms that ensure policing practices uphold human rights, foster public trust, and deliver justice for all communities.