Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s first leftist president, ascended to power with a clear and resounding campaign promise: to bring "total peace" to a nation marred by decades of conflict. Petro’s vision has involved engaging in peace talks with various armed groups, notably Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) dissidents and the National Liberation Army (ELN), which were tabled aside during the 2016 peace talks. Almost two years into his term, however, this vision appears increasingly elusive. Instead of moving closer to peace, Colombia finds itself in the throes of renewed violence, raising questions about the viability of Petro’s ambitious goals.
In recent weeks, a series of attacks by FARC dissidents have escalated tensions, particularly in Cauca, a region historically beset by violence. This surge in conflict highlights the fragile state of Colombia’s peace process. Despite efforts to engage these groups in dialogue, violence has erupted across traditional hotspots, including the Pacific region, border areas with Venezuela and Ecuador, and the Atlantic Coast.
One of the most distressing developments has been in Jamundí, a small town known for ecotourism. Here, FARC dissidents have executed multiple sophisticated bombings and drone attacks, targeting civilians and effectively paralyzing the town. There have been 17 attacks in Jamundí in the last two years alone. The town’s picturesque landscapes now stand in stark contrast to the grim reality of violence and fear that pervades the community. Sadly, such is the reality of many other Colombian pueblitos now taken, once again, by violence from criminal armed groups.
The dissidents, whose numbers range from 2,000 to 5,000 according to government and independent estimates, have voiced their dissatisfaction with the peace process. They argue that the negotiations have failed to address their political, social, and economic demands, leaving them with no choice but to continue their armed struggle. Surrendering may mean facing a life of discrimination and limited opportunities, a reality of many demobilized fighters after the 2016 peace accords.
Criminal armed groups have sustained themselves through illicit activities such as extortion, kidnapping for ransom, and trafficking drugs, people, and weapons. These activities not only fund their operations but also perpetuate a cycle of violence and instability that hampers any attempts at lasting peace.
In response to these challenges, the Petro government has launched targeted operations against these groups. A notable focus has been on combating right-wing paramilitary forces on the Atlantic Coast. However, this approach has sparked criticism from various quarters. Critics on the left argue that these operations undermine the peace process by delegitimizing the government’s commitment to negotiations. Conversely, right-wing factions contend that Petro’s strategies are too lenient on guerrilla groups, calling for a more hardline stance.
The renewed violence in Cauca and other regions is a significant test for President Petro. He faces immense pressure to adopt a definitive approach to the conflict. On one hand, he is committed to his philosophical belief in peace negotiations. On the other, he must confront the harsh reality of ongoing and zealous fighting by factions unwilling to lay down their arms.
The situation in Colombia remains precarious. President Petro's administration is at a critical juncture, where the ideal of "total peace" clashes with the persistent and brutal reality of armed conflict. As violence resurfaces in regions like Cauca, Petro's government must navigate the delicate balance between pursuing peace talks and taking decisive action against those who reject the process.
In this complex landscape, the path forward for Colombia is fraught with challenges. Petro’s ability to manage this delicate balance will not only define his presidency but also determine the future of a nation yearning for peace. As the Western Hemisphere faces waves of heightened criminal violence in Haiti, Ecuador, Mexico, and elsewhere, how President Petro handles the renewed conflict will serve as a model to replicate, or potentially, avoid.
Joseph Bouchard is a freelance journalist and analyst covering geopolitics in the Americas, with reporting experience in Bolivia, Colombia, and Brazil. His articles have appeared in The Diplomat, Mongabay, Le Devoir, La Razón, The National Interest, and Brazilian Report.
