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Colombia.

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“Nonviolence means avoiding not only external physical violence but also internal violence of spirit. You not only refuse to shoot a man, but you refuse to hate him. ”
— Martin Luther King


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Colombia: 200 years of solitude? In Gabriel Garcia Marquez’s ‘One Hundred Years of Solitude’ a defining characteristic of the town...

Colombia's flag

Colombians raise the national flag to commemorate the Independence Day. Photo credit: Julianasur. Uploaded under a Creative Commons License

Colombia has experienced an intense intrastate conflict for over half a century. Whilst guerrilla groups have suffered several high-profile setbacks, they are still a powerful force and hostilities are not expected to cease in the near future.

Paramilitary demobilisation has been successful in many but not all areas. The armed conflict is fuelled by drug-related violence, organised crime and tensions with neighbouring Ecuador and Venezuela, which have been accused of supporting rebel groups.

Current President Álvaro Uribe Vélez has served since 2002 and operated a hard-line stance against the guerrilla forces. He has consistently maintained one of the highest approval ratings of any Latin American presidency, despite criticisms from human rights groups. Even if he is not re-elected in May 2010, security policy continuity is anticipated.

Peacebuilding Organisations
Find information on peacebuilding and conflict resolution organisations working in Colombia.

Conflict Profile
Colombia has suffered armed violence for over 50 years, involving the state, various guerrilla groups and paramilitary organisations.

Stories
In-depth looks at peacebuilding and conflict in Colombia. Includes articles and case studies, and information on latest research and news.


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