On November 26, 2016, the Colombian government signed a final peace agreement with leaders of the Marxist FARC rebel group, ending five decades of conflict. The plan is to be implemented within the next six months, as FARC members—monitored by UN observers—gather around demobilization zones to surrender their weapons and begin their reintegration into society. AFP photographer Raul Arboleda recently spent time at the 34 Alberto Martinez camp, observing daily life as the rebels prepare to move into the next phase of their lives.
FARC Guerrillas Demobilizing in Colombia
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FARC guerrillas pose for a picture at the 34 Alberto Martinez camp front just days before their demobilization to the final concentration zones, in Vegaez municipality, Antioquia department, Colombia, on December 30, 2016. #
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FARC guerrilla fighters wash their clothes on the river at the Front 34 Alberto Martinez encampment in the Vegaez municipality, Antioquia department, Colombia, on January 2, 2017. #
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FARC fighter Favio, who was wounded 19 years ago during a battle with the AUC, poses for pictures during an interview with AFP at the Front 34 Alberto Martinez encampment on January 2, 2017. #
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FARC guerrilla Renteria, who was wounded three years ago during a bombardment by the Colombian Army, shows a scar as he poses for pictures during an interview with AFP at the Front 34 Alberto Martinez encampment on January 2, 2017. #
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FARC guerrilla commander Pedro (right) walks with members of the United Nations Observation Mission during thier visit at the Front 34 Alberto Martinez encampment in the Vegaez municipality, Antioquia department, Colombia on January 2, 2017. #
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FARC guerrilla Sebastian, who was wounded and lost an eye 19 years ago during a battle with the AUC (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia, or United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia) poses during an interview with AFP at the Front 34 Alberto Martinez encampment on January 2, 2017. #
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FARC guerillas Fabio Grinon (right) and Johana Zapata, pose with their son, who came for a two-day Christmas visit, during an interview with AFP at the Alberto Martinez front camp just days before their demobilization to final concentration zones on December 30, 2016. [Editor's note: Child's face pixelated at source.] #
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