Protecting Indigenous and Afro-Colombian Rights in Post-Conflict Land Restitution

This paper examines the challenges faced by Indigenous and Afro-Colombian communities in Colombia in reclaiming their lands in the post-conflict era. Despite constitutional and international frameworks, these groups face significant barriers due to bureaucratic inefficiencies, violence, and prioritization of economic interests over social justice. Using case studies, this study analyzes the impact of extractive industries and weak enforcement of free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) on these communities. The findings highlight the role of powerful corporate interests and armed groups in obstructing restitution processes, revealing the need for stronger legal protections and institutional reforms. Efforts to achieve meaningful land restitution have highlighted the persistent need for stronger accountability mechanisms, effective enforcement of FPIC, and greater protection for human rights defenders.