Environment and Armed Conflict: Perspectives of Former Combatants of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC)

Abstract

Colombia is home to the longest-running armed conflict in history. This situation has had negative repercussions on various social, economic, political, and environmental aspects. Specifically, this study aimed to analyze the environmental consequences of the armed conflict in Colombia through the interpretation of general notions about the conflict and its link to environmental degradation. To accomplish this task, an exploration of the context was conducted, including the general characteristics of the territory that contributed to the emergence of the conflict, the environmental damages caused during the war, and the main actors involved in the degradation of the territory, based on the perceptions, opinions, experiences, and feelings of former combatants. Information was collected through in-depth interviews. The results focused on understanding the significant elements of the link between the environmental situation and the post-peace agreement period. This study prompts reflection on the indirect implications of war and provides valuable insights for the design and implementation of public policies aimed at preventing environmental deterioration, promoting reconciliation, and improving the living conditions of the affected population.