ELN

ELN stands for Ejército de Liberación Nacional, a left-wing guerrilla movement in Colombia. It was founded in 1964 and combines Marxist-Leninist ideology with liberation theology, emphasizing anti-imperialism, social justice, and rural reform. The organization seeks broad structural change in Colombian society and has framed its struggle around marginalized communities and regions.

The ELN operates through clandestine cells with a decentralized command structure. Its activities have included guerrilla warfare, deadly attacks on security forces, bombings, robberies, kidnappings, and attacks on energy and transportation infrastructure. It has pursued influence in rural and border areas, particularly in the northeastern and eastern parts of the country near Venezuela and Ecuador, but has conducted operations in various regions at different times.

Historically, the ELN has been a major participant in Colombia’s long-running internal conflict, often clashing with the government and competing with other rebel and paramilitary groups. It has engaged in peace talks with authorities on several occasions, sometimes declaring short-term ceasefires for negotiations, though lasting settlement has remained elusive.

As of the 2010s and 2020s, the ELN remained active in Colombia and continued to be involved in political discussions with the government, with operations varying by region and period. It is designated as a terrorist organization by some governments and international bodies, including the United States, reflecting its history of violence and attacks on civilians and infrastructure.