Travel restrictions introduced in response to the COVID19 pandemic left a number of international specialists unable to return home following project deployments. In Colombia, one of these was Paulo Dias, Senior Technical Advisor at Global Clearance Solutions (GCS), who remained in Bogotá during quarantine after completing technical support activities for a humanitarian mine action project.

Paulo had been working in Colombia as part of longstanding cooperation between GCS and Humanity & Inclusion (HI), providing technical training and support linked to the safe introduction of mechanical assets into clearance operations. When movement restrictions came into force, he remained in country and complied with local health measures.

Engaging with a local initiative

During his time in Bogotá, Paulo became aware of the work of Sembradores de Paz y Recolectores de Esperanza, a local foundation made up largely of internally displaced people from rural regions affected by conflict. Many members of the group have themselves been directly impacted by displacement and loss of livelihoods.

In response to the pandemic, the foundation operates a community kitchen providing hot meals to homeless individuals and families displaced by conflict. Volunteers prepare and distribute food to some of the most vulnerable groups in a city of more than nine million people.

Recognising the practical value of this initiative, Paulo volunteered to support daily activities at the kitchen during his quarantine period. Based on his firsthand experience and assessment of the project's organisation and transparency, GCS also provided a contribution to support the preparation of meals for the local community.

Responsibility beyond operations

The support reflects a broader understanding that GCS personnel often work for extended periods in communities affected by conflict, instability or crisis. While GCS's primary role remains focused on explosivethreat mitigation, staff are encouraged to act responsibly and respectfully within the communities in which they operate.

GCS thanks Paulo for his initiative and commitment while away from his family, and acknowledges the work of the volunteers and organisers at Sembradores de Paz y Recolectores de Esperanza, whose efforts provide tangible support to people facing compounded hardship during the pandemic.

This is a reminder that mine action and technical field work take place within wider social contexts, where solidarity, professionalism and local engagement remain essential, particularly during periods of exceptional challenge.