By Sara Jasmine 
By Jorge Quintero and Diego Morales
For decades, Colombia endured one of the longest internal conflicts in modern history—a war that shaped generations, fractured communities, and displaced millions. Yet, from the ashes of violence, a powerful and often overlooked force for peace has emerged: former female combatants.
Among them is Katerine Avella, a former fighter turned peacebuilder. Like many women who once carried weapons in the jungle, she now carries a different mission—reconciliation, empowerment, and rebuilding the social fabric of Colombia. Her story is not just about personal transformation; it represents a broader movement of ex-combatant women weaving peace into the very communities once torn apart by conflict.
This article explores how these women are redefining their identities, contributing to sustainable peace, and reshaping Colombia’s future.
Women played complex roles during Colombia’s civil war. Many joined armed groups due to poverty, lack of opportunity, or coercion. Others sought protection or a sense of belonging. Within these groups, women often served as fighters, medics, cooks, and even leaders.
However, their contributions were frequently overshadowed by male-dominated narratives of war. Today, their stories are finally gaining recognition—not for the violence they were part of, but for the peace they are building.
The 2016 peace agreement marked a historic turning point. It offered former combatants a path to reintegrate into civilian life, emphasizing reconciliation, justice, and development.
For women like Katerine Avella, the agreement was more than a political milestone—it was a second chance at life.
Yet reintegration has not been easy. Many ex-combatant women face:
- Social stigma and discrimination
- Limited access to education and employment
- Psychological trauma from years of conflict
- Gender-based violence and inequality
Despite these challenges, many have chosen resilience over despair.
Katerine Avella’s journey reflects both the struggles and the strength of ex-combatant women.
Once part of an armed group, she lived in constant uncertainty. Today, she is a peace signatory committed to rebuilding her community. Through local initiatives, she supports other women in transitioning to civilian life.
Her work focuses on:
- Promoting economic independence
- Encouraging education and skills training
- Building trust between former combatants and civilians
Katerine’s story is not unique—but it is deeply powerful. It illustrates how transformation is possible when individuals are given support, opportunity, and dignity.
Ex-combatant women are uniquely positioned to contribute to peacebuilding. Having experienced conflict firsthand, they understand its consequences and the importance of preventing its recurrence.
Their contributions include:
Women often lead dialogue initiatives between former fighters and affected communities. These conversations are essential for healing and rebuilding trust.
Many women have started small businesses—such as weaving cooperatives, agriculture, and handicrafts—that provide income and foster collaboration.
Former combatants are increasingly participating in political and social movements, advocating for women’s rights and inclusive peace policies.
By sharing their experiences, these women educate younger generations about the realities of war and the value of peace.
The phrase “weaving peace” is both symbolic and literal.
In several Colombian communities, ex-combatant women have formed textile cooperatives. Through weaving, they create not only products but also narratives—stories of resilience, identity, and hope.
These initiatives serve multiple purposes:
- Providing sustainable livelihoods
- Preserving cultural traditions
- Creating safe spaces for emotional healing
- Connecting women across different backgrounds
Each thread woven represents a step away from violence and toward unity.
Despite their efforts, ex-combatant women face ongoing challenges that threaten the sustainability of peace.
Many communities still view former combatants with suspicion or fear. Women, in particular, face harsher judgment due to societal expectations.
Access to stable employment remains limited. Without financial security, reintegration becomes more difficult.
Some ex-combatants have been targeted by armed groups that oppose the peace process.
Women often have fewer opportunities and face additional responsibilities, such as childcare, which can hinder their progress.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from government, civil society, and international organizations.
Research shows that peace processes are more effective and sustainable when women are actively involved.
In Colombia, incorporating women into peacebuilding efforts has led to:
- More inclusive policies
- Stronger community engagement
- Greater focus on social issues such as education and healthcare
Ex-combatant women bring valuable perspectives that enrich the peace process and ensure it addresses the needs of all citizens.
The success of reintegration programs depends heavily on support systems.
Acceptance and collaboration are crucial. Community-based initiatives help bridge divides and foster mutual understanding.
Policies that provide education, healthcare, and economic opportunities are essential for long-term stability.
Global support has played a significant role in funding and guiding reintegration efforts, ensuring that former combatants have access to resources and training.
Across Colombia, countless stories echo Katerine Avella’s journey.
Women who once lived in conflict zones are now:
- Running successful businesses
- Leading community organizations
- Advocating for peace and justice
- Raising families in safer environments
These stories highlight the transformative power of opportunity and the human capacity for change.
While significant progress has been made, the journey toward lasting peace is ongoing.
Key priorities include:
- Strengthening reintegration programs
- Addressing rural inequality
- Ensuring security for former combatants
- Promoting gender equality
- Encouraging youth participation in peacebuilding
Ex-combatant women will continue to play a vital role in shaping Colombia’s future.
The stories of women like Katerine Avella challenge stereotypes and redefine narratives about conflict and peace.
They remind us that:
- People are capable of change
- Peace is a collective effort
- Women are powerful agents of transformation
By amplifying these voices, we not only honor their journeys but also inspire others to contribute to peace in their own communities.
From the jungles of conflict to the communities they now help rebuild, ex-combatant women in Colombia are weaving a new story—one of resilience, hope, and peace.
Katerine Avella and countless others have chosen to transform their past into a force for good. Through their efforts, they are not only rebuilding their own lives but also helping to heal a nation.
Their work reminds us that peace is not just an agreement—it is a continuous process, woven day by day through courage, compassion, and collaboration.
As Colombia moves forward, these women stand as living proof that even in the aftermath of war, it is possible to create something beautiful: a future grounded in peace.
- United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia. (2023). Reports on the implementation of the Colombia Peace Agreement. Retrieved from https://colombia.unmissions.org
- UN Women. (2022). Women’s participation in peace processes in Colombia. Retrieved from https://www.unwomen.org
- International Crisis Group. (2021). Colombia’s Armed Groups Battle for the Spoils of Peace. Retrieved from https://www.crisisgroup.org
- Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies. (2023). State of Implementation of the Colombian Peace Agreement. Retrieved from https://kroc.nd.edu
- Human Rights Watch. (2022). Colombia: Events of the Year. Retrieved from https://www.hrw.org
- Amnesty International. (2023). Colombia 2022/23 Human Rights Report. Retrieved from https://www.amnesty.org
- World Bank. (2022). Colombia Overview: Development and Post-Conflict Recovery. Retrieved from https://www.worldbank.org
- International Organization for Migration. (2021). Reintegration of Ex-Combatants in Colombia. Retrieved from https://www.iom.int
- Conciliation Resources. (2020). Women Building Peace in Colombia. Retrieved from https://www.c-r.org
- Quintero, J., & Morales, D. (Original reporting). Ex-Combatant Women Weave Peace in Colombia.