United Self-Defense Groups of Colombia

paramilitary organization, Colombia

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July 14, 2026

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The United Self-Defense Groups of Colombia (AUC) were a paramilitary organization that emerged in Colombia. They were often described as "self-defense" or "paramilitary" groups and represented attempts by landowners to protect themselves from guerrillas. The Colombian army frequently assisted in equipping and training these groups, which operated within the law and had been encouraged by the government since the 1960s.12

During the presidency of Ernesto Samper Pizano (1994-1998), violence increased, and paramilitary groups, led by Carlos Castaño, formed a national organization known as the AUC. These groups typically wore ski masks to conceal their identities. In December 2003, a peace agreement was negotiated between the government and the AUC, and by 2004, AUC members had begun to disarm.123

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Colombia
The growth of drug trafficking and guerrilla warfare
…a national organization called the United Self-Defense Groups of Colombia (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia), who emblazoned their group’s initials (AUC) across their battle fatigues but typically wore ski masks to conceal their identities.
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…a national organization called the United Self-Defense Groups of Colombia (Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia), who emblazoned their group’s initials (AUC) across their battle fatigues but typically wore ski masks to conceal their identities.
Read More