Colombian peace communities: the role of NGOs in supporting resistance to violence and oppression

Abstract

Colombia's chronic war is one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. Amid armed actors, pervasive violence, and increasing militarisation, many citizens experience hostility from all sides. This violence continues the historical marginalisation of Afro-descendant, indigenous, and campesino communities and is intensified by the ‘global war on terror’. Some ‘peace communities’ are rejecting violence and seeking ways to survive within war—becoming protagonists in their own protection. This is risky: it draws accusations, threats, and attacks by all armed actors, including the state. Over time, the lack of sustainable livelihoods, weak internal cohesion, and antagonistic external dynamics test the determination of such communities. This article examines four peace communities and explores factors that generate and sustain grassroots protagonism. It ends by suggesting ways in which development organisations can enhance community-level protection and reinforce local peace processes, in order to contribute to broader peace building.

Notes

1. The names of some places and individuals have been changed for security reasons.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Gretchen Alther

Gretchen Alther works with the Centre for Development and Population Activities (CEDPA) in Washington, DC. She holds an MA in Sustainable International Development from Brandeis University and a BA in Latin American Studies from Texas A&M University. She volunteered with the American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) in Colombia from September 2003 to April 2004.