Political geography: tension in the borders of Colombia as an effect of its internal conflict

Abstract

Colombian borders have always been under tension or some kind of pressure. Since independence to modern times this situation has not changed much. At the onset of the twentieth century, Panama claimed its independence and later on in 1932 Colombia was in serious trouble protecting its territory from a Peruvian invasion through its southern border. The Colombian-Venezuelan border has been rather unstable and there remains a border conflict rather troublesome to settle. In recent years Ecuador, Peru, Brasil and Panama have become increasingly worried about the impact that the Colombian internal conflict may have in their border areas. Diplomacy is keeping those troubles within a relative prudent control, as far away as possible from actions that could bring about undesirable consequences. In the early twenty-first century Colombian borders are weak, insecure, and furthermore exposed to illegal activities. It must be realized that if serious, responsible and clear policies concerning border issues are not implemented, Colombia may well be at the edge of serious international conflict.