Peace Process on hold – Business can continue to play a role

On the face of it, many people outside Colombia might view the result of the 2nd October ‘plebiscite’ as somewhat counter-intuitive; as a vote for ‘war over peace’. And whilst the result confounded pollsters’ predictions leaving many in the country wondering what comes next, it does appear to reflect the judgement made by those who bothered to vote, and voted ‘No’, that those guilty of serious crimes should receive a fitting punishment through a renegotiated peace settlement.

However, the way forward is not clear. A loss of momentum could lead to an outcome that the vast majority of Colombians do not want. The international community can play a very important role sending a clear signal that they continue to support President Santos’ negotiation effort and that funds identified to support peace building remain intact, pending a positive outcome.

So should we all sit and wait to see what happens next?

There is always a danger in providing ‘commentary’ from afar so in that spirit the comments herein are brief, yet hopefully supportive.

A light has been shone on Colombian coal imports into Europe. For some, it is the focus on coal as a source of energy and the CO2 debate that is important. For others, a key issue is providing ‘remedy’ for alleged victims of the unrest. For Bettercoal and its Members it also includes a broader set of issues: driving continuous improvement in ethical, social and environmental performance of mining companies, and building on existing good practices. In reality it is all of the above.

Parties in the coal supply chain have denounced and condemned the acts of violence in Colombia, regardless of the perpetrator and have voiced their support for the peace process. However, the result of the plebiscite causes uncertainty for Colombian business regarding a transitional process which will provide context and support for ‘reconciliation and remedy’. Whilst we may have to wait for the final peace and a transitional process set out by the Colombian government, business can use its own initiative.

The business sector can assume an active leadership role in peacebuilding in Colombia. It can be a driver of fundamental change. This doesn’t simply apply to the coal sector in Cesar or elsewhere; several business sectors have been impacted across the country. Coal companies are engaged at a governmental level with their industry associations and directly with communities through their social programs. However, the current hiatus in the peace process provides an opportunity to drive that fundamental change.

Stakeholders acting alone can do good things; acting together they can provide greater impact. Make Cesar a model for peace and regional development. National and regional government working with all coal companies (and other major businesses) and communities, ensuring a transparent flow of tax revenue to support a regional development plan and prosperity. Looking forward and building for the future is not incompatible with reconciling the past.

Bettercoal continues to engage with stakeholders in Colombia to promote responsible business practices in the coal supply chain and bring change on the ground. Both Cerrejón and Drummond are engaged in the Bettercoal Assessment Program and we welcome their participation.

There is more for all to do to achieve a long and lasting peace – sooner than later, hopefully – with Colombians building their own future.