Ten years after Colombia signed a landmark peace agreement, former President Juan Manuel Santos has assessed the accord's legacy, acknowledging significant challenges including renewed violence and deep political divisions.

The 2016 agreement aimed to end over five decades of conflict with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and was hailed internationally, earning Santos the Nobel Peace Prize.

Santos, speaking in a recent interview, highlighted that despite progress, the peace process is not without its setbacks. He noted that certain aspects of the agreement have faced resistance and that the country is experiencing a resurgence of conflict in some areas, alongside ongoing political polarization.

The implications of these challenges are considerable, potentially impacting the long-term stability and reconciliation efforts in Colombia. Santos's reflections suggest that the path to lasting peace remains complex and requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders.

The former president's assessment comes at a critical juncture, as Colombia continues to grapple with the implementation of the peace accord. The agreement sought to demobilize thousands of FARC fighters, integrate them into civilian life, and address the root causes of the conflict, such as land inequality and illicit economies.

However, the process has been marred by the emergence of dissident groups, the continued presence of other armed actors, and significant political opposition that has sought to undermine the accord's objectives. Santos has previously spoken about the difficulties in securing full buy-in from all sectors of society and the government.

Experts following the Colombian peace process have often pointed to the need for robust state presence in former conflict zones, effective transitional justice mechanisms, and comprehensive rural reform to ensure the sustainability of peace. The current situation, as described by Santos, underscores these persistent needs.

Questions remain about the future trajectory of the peace agreement and the extent to which Colombia can overcome the obstacles to achieving comprehensive and lasting peace. Santos's candid evaluation offers a stark reminder of the arduous nature of post-conflict reconciliation.