You may remember that we previously carried out psychosocial workshops in regions of Africa and the Middle East, which provide training on aspects of trauma and self-care. It was a privilege to be able to roll out more of this life-changing help in Colombia in 2024. 

The five-day workshop was designed for both human rights defenders and those who have survived severe human rights violations. It is important to remember that those who defend human rights have also likely experienced trauma themselves, since they live in the same challenging context as those they are supporting. At the beginning of the workshop, the participants were nervous and tense. 

Yet as the workshop progressed, a sense of fellowship developed. They felt increasingly free to speak openly, although some chose to share their stories privately or anonymously to CSW, because of the risks they face. 'A breath of fresh air’ Pastor Jairo* is known as a highly dedicated religious leader. He has served his community for five years, without even taking a vacation. 

The pastor said: ‘This workshop is like a breath of fresh air for me. I feel pressure from all sides. I have received practical and theoretical tools here, but I also feel important because you are listening to me… I didn’t know I had trauma and need help. I just felt pain and was directionless, but listening to this workshop, I realize I can heal. I feel hope.’ 

A violent context 

Among the 23 participants was one girl under the age of 18, and two women over 80 years old. The two most elderly participants were mourning the loss of their children due to Colombia’s complex internal conflict. The conflict dates back to 1958 and involves multiple far-left and far-right illegal armed groups, criminal groups and government forces. A peace agreement was approved by the Colombian Congress in November 2016. 

However, a number of factors – including the slow and inconsistent implementation of the agreement – has meant that the situation for Colombians in many parts of the country is unchanged. Fear and violence remain, as illegal armed groups and criminal organisations have driven a new phase of the conflict. They hold significant influence over some parts of the country, vying for control. ‘As human rights defenders, we need this kind of training because there is so much violence and pain in our region, and we do not have clear tools to understand and support the victims.’ 

What is the impact on religious leaders? 

Religious leaders are not simply caught in the crossfire of those fighting for territorial control. They are directly targeted for their religious work and for supporting other victims. They are forbidden from moving freely in order to preach. Some are essentially held hostage – restricted to moving only 200 or 300 metres around their place of residence – which is typically next to their church. This limits them to ministering only to existing members of their congregations, and they are unable to evangelise or disciple new followers.

Churches are regularly subjected to extortion from armed groups on both the right and left, as well as organised criminal groups. Over the course of the conflict, thousands of religious leaders have been targeted for assassination for defying these restrictions and continuing their work. 

‘Restored by God’s grace’ 

It was incredibly moving to hear that the knowledge and tools we provided have had a profound impact already: ‘When I arrived at this place, my life felt completely empty and hopeless; I thought there was no reason to live. But when the workshop began, everything changed. It turned my life around, and I leave here restored by God’s grace.’ 

By God’s grace, he will continue to bring hope and healing to many others in Colombia and around the world. We pray that as these human rights defenders go back to serve their communities, they will pass on this priceless knowledge to many others in need.

Quotes from participants:

‘I found freedom and received excellent guidance through this workshop. A thousand thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience with us. I felt like part of a family.’ ‘

We felt loved, well cared for, and understood. We are sure to apply this knowledge in our lives and use it to help those whom God brings into our paths.’ 

‘Thank you for dedicating your time and knowledge. Your training has equipped us with tools to keep moving forward amid the harsh conflict we are experiencing…’

 ‘I feel freer, happier, with more self-esteem and joy.’ 

‘Today I feel more equipped to continue the work of helping, comforting, and encouraging others to move forward on this path. I will pray to God for you, that He may help you continue bringing these workshops to many more in need.’

Make a gift to support CSW’s work around the world

*name changed