Around COP100 billion ($52 million) will be given to victims of violence in Colombia as part of the “solidarity allowance” plan by presidential agency Accion Social.
Over 11,000 victims of violence in 29 departments will receive payment, and letters of compensation sent out from Monday will be valid for 30 days.
Presidential advisor and director of the agency Diego Andres Molano Aponte said that the compensation program could not bring back those who had lost their lives, but would help families to rebuild themselves after being torn apart by violence.
Priority will be given to victims of landmines, children illegally recruited by armed groups, and victims of sexual abuse.