Program of Alliances for Reconciliation (PAR) Quarterly Report 1 – FY 2016: June-September 2016

The program is implemented by ACDI/VOCA, with the support of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The objective of the program is to ensure that Colombians are better prepared to come to terms with the past, engage in constructive dialogue, and transform old narratives that have been forged by conflict. The program has three main results: (1) improved capacity for developing truth-telling and memory mechanisms, (2) increased public awareness of the consequences of the internal armed conflict and mobilization of Colombians in support of reconciliation, and (3) support for community reconciliation initiatives through strategic public-private alliances (PPAs). During the first quarter of the program (June-September 2016), PAR successfully completed logistical and administrative start-up needs, drafted work plans with PAR partners, and made inaugural visits to seven of the 28 PAR-prioritized municipalities. PAR also identified civil society initiatives that align with its objectives and defined actions to strengthen the Memory and Reconciliation Commission. PAR has established itself as a strategic ally of the Colombian Agency for Reconciliation (CHM) and has defined steps to strengthen the CHM, including systematizing lessons learned and methodologies for truth-seeking, construction of historical memory, and strengthening of community-based initiatives. PAR has also identified national and international partners that can contribute to the truth commission process. The program has made significant progress in its first quarter, including the launch of the Truth Commission (TC) led by the Office of the High Commissioner for Peace (OACP) with the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Interior, the Administrative Department of Public Works (DAFP), and the National Planning Department (DNP). PAR has also mapped out national and international partners that can contribute to this process. In addition, PAR has placed itself as a strategic ally of the CHM, seeking to build on the lessons learned and experience of CHM relevant to truth and memory mechanisms. PAR has defined steps to strengthen the CHM, including systematizing lessons learned and methodologies for truth-seeking, construction of historical memory, and strengthening of community-based initiatives. The program has also identified civil society initiatives that align with its objectives and defined actions to strengthen the Memory and Reconciliation Commission. Notably, PAR has defined actions to expand the functions of the Memory and Reconciliation Commission, including documenting, disseminating, and training on strengthening local truth, memory, and reconciliation initiatives. Overall, the program has made significant progress in its first quarter, including the launch of the Truth Commission and the establishment of strategic alliances with key partners. The program is well-positioned to achieve its objectives and contribute to the reconciliation process in Colombia. The program has also made significant progress in its first quarter, including the launch of the Truth Commission and the establishment of strategic alliances with key partners. The