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 (FARC-EP) 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 tranquility to engage in the process and to remain until the end.