And they should press for government agreement to greater access for international organizations to displaced populations. Complementing such efforts, international organizations must increase their presence in the country, especially in areas outside the capital. To be sure, this strategy is not without risk, but the presence of international personnel, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross and Peace Brigades International, has served to provide protection to civilians at risk in outlying areas. It would be valuable if the offices of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees and the High Commissioner for Human Rights could increase their field staff, and both international and nongovernmental organizations could expand their presence and programs. Colombia is in the midst of a humanitarian emergency.
International support is imperative.