Palmira is a vibrant city located in Colombia's Valle del Cauca department, renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and dynamic cultural scene. Often referred to as the "Agricultural Capital of Colombia," Palmira is also home to the Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, serving as a key gateway to the region.
354,285
1,001 m
1,005 km 2
Palmira has successfully implemented the PAZOS program, a comprehensive violence prevention initiative targeting youth at risk of engaging in gang violence launched in 2020. The program has contributed to a significant 29% reduction in the city’s homicide rate by 2023, the lowest rate in 17 years. PAZOS focuses on community engagement, socio-economic support, and educational opportunities for residents aged 15-29. Key components include conflict resolution programs, vocational training, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship support.
PAZOS is an example of a successful public-private collaboration, with community actors, law enforcement, and private sector partners working together to address the structural causes of crime. As part of the program, initiatives like “Forging Opportunities” provide training and support for legal economic activities, while “Resilience Dialogues” help connect various stakeholders to maximize resource impact. In recognition of its success and innovative approach, Palmira received the UCLG Peace Prize in 2022, serving as a model for social innovation in violence prevention.
Palmira faces significant peace and safety challenges, including high rates of violence and crime primarily concentrated in specific neighborhoods. Nearly 50% of homicides occur in just 22 neighborhoods, predominantly affecting youth aged 16-30. Complicating factors include the impact of organized crime, socioeconomic disparities, and historical distrust between the community and law enforcement agencies.
Since implementing the PAZOS Strategy, Palmira has achieved significant quantifiable results and impacts. An impact study evaluation using differences in differences and matching methods has provided robust statistical evidence attributing the reduction in homicides to the implementation of the PAZOS program.
This study specifically credited the Forging Opportunities strategy with preventing 4 homicides during the evaluation period.
These outcomes underscore Palmira’s commitment to evidence-driven solutions and highlight the city’s progress in fostering safer, more resilient communities through comprehensive violence prevention efforts.
decrease in the overall homicide rate, achieving the lowest rate in 17 years.
reduction in homicides specifically related to gang violence.
increase in youth participation in vocational training and employment initiatives.
of program participants reported using conflict resolution skills to address disputes
Palmira’s participation in the Peace in Our Cities network has been transformative. Through collaboration and shared learning, we have implemented effective violence prevention strategies such as PAZOS, significantly reducing our homicide rates and improving community safety. This journey highlights the power of collective action for lasting peace.
Oscar Escobar, Former Mayor of Palmira
