Bishops to launch initiatives against violence on Ecuador-Colombia border

SÃO PAULO, Brazil – As the governments of Ecuador and Colombia intensify a tariff dispute over border security, the security situation in northern Ecuador and southern Colombia has deteriorated in recent months, with growing clashes among armed groups operating on both sides of the border.

Drug cartels, left-wing guerrillas, and illegal mining groups have taken control of vast territories.

The Church in both countries is expressing concern about the impact of ongoing violence on local residents and stepping up joint efforts to provide pastoral accompaniment.

Cardinal Luis Cabrera of Guayaquil – the largest city and principal port of Ecuador, which has seen significant violence as a result of the drug trade – told Crux Now the Church in the region has been accompanying the most vulnerable communities, “offering moral and spiritual support and encouraging solidarity among them.”

“Likewise,” Cabrera said, “we invite state and civil authorities to be closer to the needs of the people and to join efforts to address their major problems, such as health care, education, employment, food, and security, which are so greatly needed.”

According to a report published by the U.S.-based nonprofit Armed Conflict Location and Event Data (ACLED), there were 750 violent incidents