This report derives from a research collaboration between Georgetown University and Universidad de Los Andes Colombia which analyzes the Colombian armed conflict and the consequent peace processes through a comparative historical perspective. It examines the long history of confrontation and the consecutive attempts to restore peace in Colombia and other countries in Latin America and the world. The study investigates the historical factors of violence in Colombia and the military solutions and negotiations implemented in the past. From this study, the report draws ten lessons:
- One can reject elements of the negotiation model used with the FARC in Caguán without rejecting outright the option of a negotiated solution.
- A peacemaking policy must rely on the lessons left by previous peace processes in Colombia, particularly those that have not been successful.
- Successful negotiations are not viable amid an escalation of the armed conflict and an increase in violations of International Humanitarian Law.
- A comprehensive peace policy is needed that goes beyond a simple negotiation between the government and the insurgents.
- The Colombian government and the guerrillas need to recognize what is possible and what is viable in the context of the current conflict.
- Civil society must be pro-active, and must participate as an independent and autonomous actor; it must not leave the peace process solely in the hands of the government and the insurgents.
- All sectors are needed in the construction of peace in Colombia, and the support of women is indispensable.
- Peace in Colombia is an issue for Colombians, but it is also a legitimate issue for the international community, which can play an important role in a peace process.
- The idea of peace and a political solution to the conflict must be cultivated and nurtured in order to legitimize and sustain the process of negotiation.
- The past is prologue. Each peace process is built on the foundations laid by previous experiences.
