Colombia heads to a tense election as violence and displacement rise ahead of voters choosing a successor to President Gustavo Petro. This page breaks down the key questions people are asking: why violence is surging, who the main candidates are and what they stand for, how outcomes could affect displacement hotspots, and what voters need to know before casting their ballots on May 31. Explore concise answers to the most searched questions and stay informed with clear, up-to-date context.
Violence around the May 31 election is linked to multiple factors: armed groups contesting territory and drug routes, campaign-related attacks on staff, and heightened tensions in displacement hotspots. Humanitarian reporting shows displacement rising sharply, with civilians in rural areas bearing the brunt as security operations and threat perceptions influence voting conditions.
Polls show leftist Iván Cepeda leading for Historic Pact, with Abelardo de la Espriella and Paloma Valencia as strong right-leaning contenders. De la Espriella has proposed hard-line security measures, including new detention capacity, and a stance skeptical of peace processes. Valencia emphasizes restoring security through aggressive policing and pursuing suspected guerrillas, while Cepeda advocates reforms rooted in the existing Petro era and suggests a potential constituent assembly if talks falter.
Displacement hotspots are directly affected by security policies and violence levels. The ICRC data shows a sharp humanitarian toll in 2025, with rising confinements and explosive injuries. The election outcome could influence access to protections, humanitarian access, and how quickly security conditions improve or deteriorate in parts of rural Colombia where civilians have limited options for safety during campaigns.
Voters should be aware of the security context, the candidates’ positions on peace talks and security policy, and how violence could affect polling sites and accessibility. Reports note that attacks on campaign staff and civilians have occurred, and local conditions vary widely. Check official election updates for polling locations and any changes to voting procedures, and consider the impact of security measures on turnout in displacement-affected communities.
Reliable analysis is available from Reuters profiles of the candidates, AP News summaries, and on-the-ground reporting from outlets like The Independent and Al Jazeera. These sources discuss each candidate’s platform, proposed reforms, and current security-focused messaging, helping voters compare plans in the context of ongoing violence and humanitarian concerns.
Polls indicate Iván Cepeda leading the race, with Abelardo de la Espriella and Paloma Valencia in close contention for second place. As the election nears, polls can shift given security developments and campaign dynamics. It’s wise to consider multiple reputable sources and watch for updates as the vote approaches.
Gladys Marín is unsure if she will vote in Colombia's presidential election due to safety fears