Arauca, a department in northeastern Colombia bordering Venezuela, has experienced renewed fighting since 2022 between the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Central General State (EMC). The conflict has limited movement, produced confinement and forced displacement, and disrupted daily life for many residents and migrants.
A 2023 analysis says a large share of the department’s population has been recognized as victims of the armed conflict. Venezuelan families are often denied services and face discrimination, with risks such as gender-based violence and child recruitment.
Since March 2025, MSF has run mobile clinics in rural and conflict-affected municipalities, including Tame, Arauquita and Puerto Rondón, to provide care when roads are unsafe or clinics close. MSF and health organizations say neutral, independent services help reach people in need and rebuild trust, although healthcare alone cannot end the fighting.
Difficult words
- department — an administrative region of a country
- renew — to start again after a pauserenewed
- dissident — a person or group that opposes leaders
- confinement — state of being kept in a place
- displacement — people forced to leave their homes
- discrimination — unfair treatment because of background
- mobile clinic — a health team that travels to patientsmobile clinics
- neutral — not taking sides in a conflict
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How can mobile clinics help people who cannot travel because roads are unsafe?
- What difficulties do Venezuelan families face in Arauca, according to the text?
- Do you think neutral health services can help rebuild trust in conflict areas? Why or why not?
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