National Liberation Army

Sponsored Ad

The National Liberation Army (Ejército de Liberación Nacional, ELN) is a Marxist-Leninist guerrilla group operating primarily in Colombia. It was founded in 1964 by a group of Colombian intellectuals inspired by the Cuban Revolution. The ELN's primary stated goals include land reform, redistribution of wealth, and the establishment of a socialist government in Colombia. Since its formation, the ELN has engaged in various forms of armed struggle, including attacks on military targets, infrastructure sabotage, and kidnapping for ransom.

The group has historically relied on funding from kidnapping, extortion, and control over portions of the illicit drug trade. The ELN has maintained a presence in rural areas of Colombia, especially in regions with limited government control. Unlike other guerrilla groups in Colombia, such as the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), the ELN has been known for its focus on political ideology and maintaining relations with local populations through community-based activities. Over the years, it has engaged in negotiations with the Colombian government aimed at peace, but these talks have often been interrupted by ongoing violence and disagreements over terms.

The ELN remains active, despite various efforts to weaken its operations, and continues to be a significant player in Colombia’s internal conflict. Peace negotiations have been attempted multiple times, with varying degrees of success, but the group has yet to disarm completely. Internationally, the ELN is designated as a terrorist organization by several countries, including the United States and the European Union, due to its use of violence and kidnappings.