06/13/2006

Hundreds of thousands of displaced people live in harsh conditions in urban centers and represent the most vulnerable of the poor people of Colombia. Despite greater commitment from the Colombian government to address their needs, several obstacles continue to prevent the displaced from accessing decent housing, basic social services like health care and education, and income generating activities. The government of Colombia must recognize that displaced people have less ability than other vulnerable groups to integrate into urban settings and cope after displacement. The Colombian government needs to prioritize the needs of the displaced and increase significantly its financial contribution to provide them with essential services and opportunities to create sustainable livelihoods.