A/HRC/7/39 page 7 restricted their political activities.13 A total of 8 aspiring candidates and 23 registered candidates were murdered; 4 aspiring candidates and 5 registered candidates were kidnapped.14 9. Another important aspect of the political context was the continuation of the dialogue among the Government, civil society and the international community, which led to the III International Congress on Colombia, held in Bogotá in November 2007. The final declaration reaffirmed the need to continue with efforts to achieve results [in applying the recommendations of the High Commissioner] as quickly as possible.15 II. THE HUMAN RIGHTS AND INTERNATIONAL HUMANITARIAN LAW SITUATION 10. Although there are some encouraging signs of improvement, the situation of human rights and international humanitarian law remains a matter of concern, particularly in regions in which the dynamics of internal armed conflict have become more intense. 11. The authorities, especially the Government, welcomed the High Commissioner’s recommendations and cooperation in general, renewing their commitment to full implementation, while acknowledging that there are still challenges to be faced and shortcomings to be remedied. However, major efforts and additional measures must be sustained and reinforced over a long period of time if they are to be really effective. This should include coordinated and convergent actions by all sectors and institutions of the State and civil society. Specific efforts must be made to prevent victims’ demands from becoming invisible and thus irrelevant. The fulfilment of the rights of victims of the armed conflict to truth, justice, and reparation, and the guarantee of non-repetition, are essential conditions for a transition towards lasting peace and national reconciliation. A. State authorities 1. The fight against impunity 12. Structural problems persist in the administration of justice. These include the underreporting of crimes to the authorities, the difficulties of access to the judicial system, the insufficiency of funds and technological resources (despite increased budgets), the lack of uniform criteria in the application of the law, the high workload of judges and prosecutors, the slow pace of proceedings, and cases of corruption. During 2007 some progress was made in opening up channels to combat impunity, particularly in judicial proceedings under Law 975/2005 against demobilized paramilitary leaders whose depositions represent a first step 13 Threats were reported in Antioquia, Arauca, Bolívar, Cauca, Putumayo, Santander, Tolima and Valle, and voters were intimidated in Córdoba and Nariño. 14 15 Antioquia, Valle del Cauca and Tolima were the departments worst affected. “Declaration of Bogotá”, III International Conference on Colombia, Bogotá, 30 November 2007, see Point 7.