Bogota, Colombia - The resurgence of armed conflict by dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) is a stark indictment of the Colombian government's failure to uphold its commitments to protect former combatants and address the root causes of inequality that fueled the decades-long conflict. In an exclusive interview with Al Jazeera, FARC dissidents revealed that they were forced to return to war after the government failed to provide adequate security measures, leaving them vulnerable to violence and undermining the promise of a peaceful reintegration into society.

The 2016 peace agreement, while hailed as a historic achievement, has been plagued by implementation challenges. A core component of the accord was the disarmament of FARC rebels and their reintegration into civilian life, with guarantees of political participation and economic opportunities. However, these promises have largely gone unfulfilled, particularly for those living in marginalized rural communities.

The government's failure to provide security for former FARC combatants is a direct consequence of its unwillingness to dismantle paramilitary groups and address the systemic violence that continues to plague the country. These groups, often linked to powerful landowners and political elites, have targeted former rebels and community leaders with impunity, creating a climate of fear and insecurity.

Furthermore, the government's neoliberal economic policies have exacerbated inequality and further marginalized rural communities, creating fertile ground for recruitment by armed groups. The lack of access to land, education, and healthcare has left many former rebels feeling abandoned and disillusioned, driving them back into the ranks of the dissidents.

The international community must hold the Colombian government accountable for its failures and demand immediate action to protect former FARC combatants and address the root causes of the conflict. This includes dismantling paramilitary groups, implementing land reform, and investing in education and healthcare in marginalized communities.

The resurgence of violence is not simply a security issue; it is a reflection of deep-seated social and economic inequalities that must be addressed if Colombia is to achieve lasting peace. A comprehensive approach that prioritizes human rights, social justice, and inclusive development is essential for building a sustainable peace.

It is imperative that the Colombian government and the international community listen to the voices of the marginalized and ensure that their needs are addressed. Failure to do so will only perpetuate the cycle of violence and undermine the prospects for a just and equitable peace.

The ongoing crisis demands a shift in perspective, moving away from militarized solutions and towards a holistic approach that addresses the social, economic, and political factors driving the conflict.

The Colombian government must prioritize the implementation of the peace accord in its entirety, including the provisions related to land reform, political participation, and economic reintegration.

The international community should increase its support for peacebuilding initiatives in Colombia, focusing on empowering local communities and promoting sustainable development.

A thorough investigation into the killings of former FARC combatants is needed to bring perpetrators to justice and provide justice for the victims and their families.