Geneva, 11 January 2008 - The High Commissioner for Human Rights, Ms. Louise Arbour, welcomed the release, on 10 January, of Ms. Consuelo González de Perdomo and Ms. Clara Rojas, two hostages who had been held since 10 Septemeber 2001 and 23 February 2002 by the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP).  The High Commissioner has called on numerous occasions for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages in the hands of illegal armed groups in Colombia.  

In congratulating all those who have contributed to make this possible, the High Commissioner said that “This is a hopeful sign that further release of hostages is possible.  We wish to reiterate our call for the release of all hostages without pre-conditions, as mandated by international humanitarian law and common humanity.”