The U'wa Indigenous Guard were formed to nonviolently defend U'wa territory from a multitude of external threats from extractive companies and unwanted "eco-tourists".

In the era of COVID-19 – known to U'wa spiritual elders as "The Demon" – the Guard's mission has expanded to include the protection of their territory from the spread of the deadly pandemic.

Over recent weeks, the Guard has controlled vehicular entry into the U'wa Reserve, and, they have only allowed vehicles carrying food supplies or medical patients. Governmental authorities – including the army – have been prohibited. Community leaders have once again told Colombia's illegal armed groups to stay away.