Association of Victims of State Crime – Magdalena Medio
The Association of Victims of State Crimes – Magdalena Medio (Asorvimm) searches for truth, justice, reparation and non-repetition for victims of the war in the Magdalena Medio region. The organisation supports victims, brings dignity to their names and recuperates historical memory about them. It is part of the National Movement of Victims of State Crimes (Movice). Asorvimm promotes and coordinates Victims’ Committees in different municipalities in the region. As part of the implementation of the Peace Agreements, it documents victims’ cases.
Threats and attacks
Asorvimm’s security situation has always been concerning because of its work of reporting violations and because it is an organisation that supports victims of State crimes. Its members have been subjected to arbitrary detentions,[1] several incidences of harassment, and violent attacks. Asorvimm’s members have reported being followed by people in cars, or by people taking photographs of them as they leave their houses or office. Like other organisations, is has been the target of threats printed in leaflets signed by neo-paramilitary groups which operate in the region.[2]
Protection measures
Lilia Peña, former president and a member of Asorvimm has a security detail provided by the National Protection Unit (UNP).
International accompaniment
PBI accompanies Asorvimm since 2013; between 2011 and 2013 it accompanied its president, Lilia Peña.
Footnotes:
[1]Alvaro Garcia, spokesperson for the Board of Directors was detained on 24 April 2016. Coordinación Nacional de Organizaciones Agrarias y Populares: Capturado líder campesino en Puerto Wilches (Santander), 26 April 2016
[2] Frontline Defenders: Historia del caso: Lilia Peña Silva