Colombia's Cautious Optimism: Preparing for ELN Rebel Ceasefire

Colombia is preparing for a bilateral ceasefire with the National Liberation Army (ELN), the country's largest remaining rebel group. The ceasefire, set to last 180 days, will be monitored by a multilateral verification mechanism consisting of Colombian security forces, ELN members, religious group representatives, and officials from the United Nations and Colombia's government. While the ceasefire is seen as a victory for President Gustavo Petro's peace plans, there are doubts about the ELN's willingness to comply. The group has a history of violating agreements, and its structure and regional autonomy pose challenges to unified compliance. The ceasefire only covers fighting between the ELN and Colombian security forces, leaving confrontations with other armed groups unresolved. Community involvement and participation are seen as crucial in achieving lasting peace.