The role of the FARC-EP’s rebel diplomacy in the Colombian peace process

Abstract

The research of nonviolent tactics used by rebel groups is now more
relevant than ever, considering the increase of intrastate conflicts in the
last decades. Some scholars are studying the strategic relations between
insurgents and international actors to achieve political and military
objectives, giving that conduct the name of rebel diplomacy. This
dissertation takes as a case study the current Colombian peace
agreement between the government and the guerrilla group
Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARCEP)
to analyse the role of the group’s rebel diplomacy during the peace
process. Although the international relations of the FARC-EP were not
as strong and strategic compared to other similar guerrilla
organisations, they were consistent with their international policies
over the years, gaining the support of governments, NGOs and
individuals in Europe and Latin America, especially in Venezuela.
Those relations were taken into account during the peace negotiations,
giving the group the confidence and tranquillity to engage in the
process and to remain until the end.