Since 1998, with the arrival of the pilot Jepirachi wind project led by Empresas Públicas de Medellín, the department of La Guajira has experienced a growing influx of wind energy projects—mainly due to its strategic geographic location and exceptional wind potential. As of 2024, there are approximately 60 wind energy generation and transmission projects undergoing environmental licensing, many of which are facing various types of conflicts.

The scoping study, focused on the municipalities of Uribia and Maicao, identified several key challenges, including:

• Difficulties in effectively accessing information.

• Multiple and multi-causal conflicts.

• Inadequate procedures for Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC).

• Conflicting mandates and legitimacy of leadership structures in the territories.

• Weaknesses in the regulatory framework and public policy.

• Exclusion of specific community groups during participation and land access agreements.

• Risks to intangible cultural heritage and the disruption of sacred areas.

• Absence of a gender perspective to recognize sector-specific impacts (e.g., gender-based violence and exclusion of women from decision-making).

• Unclear benefit-sharing agreements.

• Need for a broader intercultural perspective.

• Importance of applying business due diligence and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.