Abstract

Since the mid-twentieth century, Colombia has suffered a tough internal armed conflict resulting in nearly 250,000 deaths and six million victims of internal displacement. ¹ Similarly, despite an economic stability unusual in Latin America, Colombia remains the second most unequal society in the region. Electoral democracy has been active since the late 1950s. However, low participation in elections is common, and political or human rights activist activities remain dangerous. Violence has become common in this culturally diverse country, one beset by social exclusion, intolerance, and a wealth gap between urban and rural zones.