Cali, with a population of 2,5 million people, is the third most important city in Colombia, a key economic hub, and a global leader in sustainability. As the host of COP16 on biodiversity, it reaffirmed its commitment to conservation while advancing reconciliation and peacebuilding through inclusive development and environmental management.
2.234 M
1,018 m
619 km2
Cali is tackling its security challenges through a multifaceted approach that aims at reducing homicides to fewer than 1,000 cases per year, decreasing crimes against property and personal safety. The city government collaborates with security agencies to increase street presence and enhance operational capacities, aiming to deter and control crime effectively. It is also committed to creating safe, high-quality public spaces to ensure a peaceful and secure environment for all residents. The city is also strengthening data analysis capabilities through technology and partnerships, with the goal of aim of ensuring evidence-based strategic decisions.
Social reintegration programs, such as “Forjar Oportunidades” by the SIDOC Foundation, focus on transforming the lives of vulnerable youth by fostering socio-emotional skills and providing training for employment and entrepreneurship. Initiatives like “Jóvenes en la Buena”, launched in early 2024, offer conflict mediation, psychosocial support, and access to opportunities for at-risk youth, including former gang members. Additionally, there are ongoing efforts to address gender-based violence and improve community access to justice and promote peaceful conflict resolution.
Cali faces significant security challenges. It has one of the highest homicide rates globally, with 1,046 murders recorded in 2023 (45.9 per 100,000 inhabitants). The city’s strategic location near Buenaventura, a major maritime port, exacerbates issues like drug trafficking, gang violence, and the recruitment of minors into criminal activities. High population vulnerability further fuels dynamics of illegality and conflict.
In 2024, Cali achieved its lowest homicide rate in 32 years and contributed to 60% of the national homicide decline that year. Between 2021 and 2023, the "Forjar Oportunidades" program engaged 4,814 vulnerable youths aged 18 to 28, conducting 36,163 sessions. The Jóvenes en la Buena has been supporting 1,600 youths with 200 weekly activities across seven prioritized districts.
homicide reduction in 2024
reduction of personal theft in 2024, compared to 2023
reduction of commercial theft in 2024, compared to 2023
reduction of vehicle theft by 19%, compared to 2023
reduction in public transportation theft in 2024, compared to 2023
youths accessed formal education between 2021-2023 through Forjar Oportunidades
youths formal employment between 2021-2023 through Forjar Oportunidades
youths formal employment between 2021-2023 through Forjar Oportunidades
We aim to share our experience and implementation capabilities in prevention programs to help cities achieve tangible results in reducing violence. We hope that Cali will serve as a national and international model for violence prevention, particularly among young people.
Jairo García, Secretary of Security and Justice of Cali
