Rural Security in Colombia: An Opportunity for State Consolidation

Abstract

The citizen security service provided by the Colombian State is unequal. It focuses mainly on large cities and municipal capitals, and is absent in vast expanses of the national geography. In these regions, state incapacity to enforce the law, resolve citizen conflicts, and protect and promote social order based on peaceful coexistence is painfully evident. Also, in a context of armed conflict, the State has placed special emphasis on the fight against illegal armed groups (national security), rather than respond to coexistence and security challenges (citizen security). Post-conflict, the transition from national security to citizen security in rural areas requires the design of security strategies with a regional focus. It should consider institutional adjustments, construction of legal authorities, and the strengthening of local capacities.