Ecuadorian and Colombian bishops have sent a letter to Cardinal Luis Gerardo Cabrera Herrera, the Archbishop of Guayaquil and President of the Ecuadorian Episcopal Conference, highlighting the serious humanitarian and social crisis affecting communities along the Ecuador-Colombia border. In the letter dated January 30, the bishops warn about the deteriorating security conditions in the Colombian departments of Nariño and Putumayo, as well as in the Ecuadorian provinces of Carchi, Esmeraldas, and Sucumbíos. They emphasize that the region has seen an increase in the presence and territorial disputes of armed groups and criminal organizations, leading to persistent fear and restrictions on mobility for local populations.

The bishops detail how this violence has adversely affected not only the safety of individuals but also has led to severe environmental impacts and risks for social leaders, indigenous and farming communities, and migrants. They point out that these issues have contributed to a weakening of social and community bonds in these border areas, making it even more challenging for vulnerable populations to navigate their daily lives and maintain stability in an already precarious situation. The issues raised in the letter shed light on the broader implications for regional security and humanitarian efforts that are needed to address these urgent concerns.

By urging Cardinal Cabrera to take action, the bishops aim to bring national and international attention to an increasingly critical situation that requires immediate intervention and support. Their call represents a significant step towards addressing the complex interplay of social, political, and humanitarian factors that are exacerbating the plight of communities along the border, indicating an urgent need for collaborative solutions that involve various stakeholders including government, church, and civil society organizations.