The Catatumbo region, located on the border between Colombia and Venezuela, is experiencing one of the most complex social realities in the country. Marked by armed conflict, the presence of illicit economies and the migration crisis, this area has become a critical point of forced displacement. Faced with this situation, the work of the Catholic Church and humanitarian organizations has been a pillar of hope for the affected communities.
Father Euclides Medina Blanco, a Redemptorist missionary from the Parish of the Most Holy Redeemer in Cúcuta, shared his experience on the front line accompanying displaced people from Catatumbo. According to him, many of them have sought refuge in the city, initially being placed in the General Santander Stadium while alternative accommodations in hotels or with relatives were arranged. This temporary shelter became an epicenter of solidarity.
“Monsignor Darío de Jesús Garcés Monsalve, bishop of the diocese, asked me to be present as a Catholic Church, celebrating Eucharists and listening to the testimonies of displaced people,” explains Father Euclides. His previous experience as an itinerant missionary in conflict zones allowed him to approach this mission with sensitivity and empathy, bringing a message of hope in the midst of pain.
The complex reality of Catatumbo is palpable in the stories of those who arrive in Cúcuta. Although the reasons for displacement are diverse, many agree in pointing to violence, insecurity and lack of opportunities as determining factors. “One hears many reasons and comments, but it is necessary to filter and discern what is true. Despite everything, the suffering is evident,” adds Father Euclides.
The response to this crisis has not only come from the Catholic Church, which has contributed with food and supplies through the Food Bank, but also from organisations such as the Red Cross, Civil Defence, and the UN. However, the scale of the problem remains alarming. Although the number of displaced people arriving in Cúcuta has recently decreased, the human drama persists.
Catatumbo faces structural challenges: historically, it has been a region forgotten by the State, which has allowed illegal armed actors and illicit economies to control much of the territory. In addition, its border location with Venezuela has made it a strategic corridor for activities such as smuggling and drug trafficking, aggravating the humanitarian crisis. In this context, the pastoral work of the Redemptorists becomes a balm. “For me, as a Redemptorist missionary, it has been a pleasure to serve by accompanying the suffering people. It is to bring hope amidst pain,” concludes Father Euclides. While Catatumbo cries out for peace and justice, solidarity continues to be the driving force that allows its inhabitants to face an uncertain present with the hope of a better future.
Fr. Euclides Medina Blanco, CSsR. and Fr. Edward Chacon Diaz, CSsR.