Colombian Armed Conflict
 · 2 min read
 · Will Power Smith
Table of contents

The Impact of Colombia's Peace Agreement on Violence and Security Post-2016

Introduction

In 2016, Colombia marked a historic turning point with the signing of a peace agreement between the government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), a key insurgent group that had engaged in a prolonged conflict since the 1960s. This agreement aimed to transform the socio-political landscape, reduce violence, and foster national stability. However, the aftermath has been complex, with both progress and setbacks regarding security and violence levels.

Details

  • Reduction in Mainstream Conflict

      • The peace agreement led to the demobilization of over 13,000 FARC fighters.
        • This significantly reduced armed confrontations between government forces and the FARC, leading to a decrease in casualties.
      • The government focused on reintegrating former combatants into civilian life, which has shown mixed results.

  • Emergence of New Violence Dynamics

      • With the decline of FARC's presence, other armed groups have filled the power vacuums.
        • Groups like the ELN (National Liberation Army) and dissident factions of FARC have continued violent activities, particularly in areas previously controlled by the FARC.
      • This shift has led to an overall increase in violence in some regions, particularly concerning drug trafficking and territorial disputes.

  • Targeting of Social Leaders

      • A notable increase in violence against social leaders, human rights advocates, and former FARC members has been observed.
        • Between 2016 and 2022, there have been hundreds of reported assassinations of such individuals, fueling fear and instability in rural communities.
      • The lack of effective protection mechanisms for these leaders has exacerbated the situation.

  • Rural and Urban Disparities in Security

      • While urban centers may have seen a temporary peace, rural areas remain volatile.
        • The government has struggled to maintain a consistent security presence in remote regions.
      • Community resistance to the presence of armed groups continues to pose significant challenges, hindering peacebuilding efforts.

  • Peace Implementation Challenges

      • The implementation of the peace agreement’s developmental promises, such as land reform and economic development, has been slow.
        • Discrepancies in funding and resources have stalled crucial projects meant to address the root causes of violence.
      • Ongoing socio-economic disparities contribute to the persistence of violence as disenfranchised communities seek alternative means of income, including illegal activities.

  • International and Domestic Support

      • The involvement of international observers and NGOs has played a crucial role in monitoring peace progress.
        • However, political will within Colombia remains mixed, complicating the path toward lasting peace.
      • Public support for the peace agreement has fluctuated, affected by sporadic violence and skepticism toward the government’s commitment to peace.

Conclusion

The implementation of the 2016 peace agreement in Colombia has resulted in a notable reduction in traditional armed conflict and a significant shift in dynamics of violence and security. While the demobilization of FARC has led to decreased casualties from conventional warfare, the emergence of new armed groups, the targeting of social leaders, and uneven security throughout the country pose ongoing challenges. The slow pace of implementing the socio-economic commitments outlined in the agreement further complicates the situation. Overall, while progress has been made, Colombia still grapples with achieving a comprehensive and enduring peace that addresses the underlying issues fueling violence.