Colombia
La Paz F.C. is a Colombian amateur football club based in Bogotá, Colombia, founded in 2017 as a unique initiative to promote peace and facilitate the reintegration of demobilised members from the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). The club represents an innovative approach to peacebuilding through football, receiving recognition from both the Colombian government and international organizations including FIFA for its contribution to peace efforts.
History
Overview
General information about the club
La Paz F.C. operates as an amateur football club with ambitious long-term objectives that extend beyond traditional sporting goals. The club was conceived as part of a broader peacebuilding initiative following Colombia's historic peace agreement, representing a unique fusion of sport and social reintegration efforts.
Most recent season and achievements
The club has participated in international tournaments, notably competing in the World Meeting for Peace in France, where it faced teams including Bayeux F.C. and a Normandy regional selection, demonstrating its commitment to international peace-building through football.
History
Early years
The concept for La Paz F.C. emerged in the aftermath of the 2016 peace agreement between the Colombian government and the FARC. The initiative was promoted by human rights lawyer Félix Mora, president of the Fundación Fútbol y Paz (Football and Peace Foundation), who envisioned football as a vehicle for peace and reconciliation.
Current period
The club was officially established in September 2017 following an agreement signed between the Football and Peace Foundation and FARC leaders. The club received official sports recognition in 2018, marking its formal entry into Colombian football. The long-term vision includes competing in Colombia's second division, as well as developing youth (U-20) and women's leagues, supported by various institutions including the Colombian government and international organizations such as FIFA.
Symbols and Colors
Nicknames
The club is commonly referred to as La Paz F.C., with "La Paz" meaning "The Peace" in Spanish, directly reflecting its core mission of promoting peace and reconciliation through football.
Club Traditions and Behind the Scenes
Traditions and culture
La Paz F.C. represents a groundbreaking approach to using football as a tool for peacebuilding and social reintegration. The club's culture is built around the principle of providing opportunities for demobilised FARC members to reintegrate into society through sport, while promoting peace and reconciliation in Colombian communities affected by decades of armed conflict.