Catatumbo: Impacto Socioeconómico y Crisis Humanitaria en una Región Afectada por el Conflicto Armado

Abstract

This study analyzes the social, economic, and humanitarian consequences of the armed conflict in the Catatumbo region of Norte de Santander, an area historically affected by violence, the presence of illegal armed groups, and limited state intervention. The objective was to identify the factors that have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, emphasizing forced displacement, dependence on illicit economies, and the violation of fundamental rights. A quantitative and descriptive methodology was applied through two Likert-scale surveys addressed to victims of the conflict and officials from the Ocaña Mayor's Office, with a sample of 95 people selected by probability. The results show that a significant portion of the population has suffered threats, displacement, and loss of access to essential services. Furthermore, there is a high dependence on illegal activities due to the lack of formal employment opportunities. The conflict has generated a persistent cycle of poverty, violence, and rights violations, severely impacting regional socioeconomic development. The research provides a comprehensive view of the humanitarian crisis from the perspectives of victims and local actors, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained state intervention that includes economic and administrative strategies for the reconstruction and sustainable development of the region.