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Violence and Sectoral Development in Colombia

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Economic Development Strategies and the Evolution of Violence in Latin America

Part of the book series: Politics, Economics, and Inclusive Development ((POEID))

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Abstract

Colombia is often portrayed as a country plagued by interminable internal conflict. However, behind this pessimistic generalization is a variegated reality of peaceful areas and bloody fighting. In this chapter, we examine specific sectors in Colombia to ask the question: when does sectoral development increase versus decrease conflict? This chapter has a targeted focus on economic sectors typically associated with higher conflict: coffee, oil, plantation agriculture (ranching and African palm), and coca. Our analysis extends to examining the following intervening factors: government policy, commodity prices, the provision of basic services, and overall state presence. We examine in depth case studies to identify the contextual factors that influence the relationship between development of distinct commodities and violence. Finally, what are the lessons learned about how to pursue development opportunities without increasing conflict?

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Authors
  1. Jennifer S. Holmes
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  2. Sheila Amin Gutiérrez de Piñeres
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Editor information

Editors and Affiliations

  1. Government and Economics at Claremont McKenna College, USA

    William Ascher (Donald C. McKenna Professor) (Donald C. McKenna Professor)

  2. Duke Center for International Development, USA

    Natalia Mirovitskaya (Senior Researcher & Lecturing Fellow) (Senior Researcher & Lecturing Fellow)

Copyright information

© 2012 William Ascher and Natalia Mirovitskaya

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Holmes, J.S., de Piñeres, S.A.G. (2012). Violence and Sectoral Development in Colombia. In: Ascher, W., Mirovitskaya, N. (eds) Economic Development Strategies and the Evolution of Violence in Latin America. Politics, Economics, and Inclusive Development. Palgrave Macmillan, New York. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137272690_4

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