Throughout the course, we have learned that buffer states play an important role in a nation’s status. Weak buffer states can make it difficult for a given state to improve its institutions and reach a stable state. This trend is common in Africa, where many bordering nations are critically weak or failing and the regional failures contribute to the cycle, preventing or delaying success. Colombia is situated in a unique location, with one coast on the Pacific Ocean and one coast on the Caribbean Sea. Its neighbors are Peru, Brazil, Venezuela, Ecuador, and Panama. Colombia’s position makes it the gateway to Central America and North America, meaning that the other South American nations rely on Colombia as a means of transportation throughway. The relationships become especially contentious when looking at issues of drug trafficking through Colombia to the US and Mexico. Colombia’s relationships and trade agreements with surrounding Latin American nations are inherently connected with internal affairs.
Colombia seeks to maintain positive relationships with its bordering nations, regardless of their political systems or beliefs. The economy is open and supports trade between Border States and states farther abroad. Venezuela, Colombia’s eastern neighbor, has similar history and culture to Colombia, but their politics and security are the basis for tensions. Previously, one of the main sources of tension relates to the presence of the insurgent and terrorist groups due to a spillover effect from Colombia, specifically the FARC. Political leaders have also contributed to border tensions. For example, in 2008 president Uribe’s efforts to control the FARC inside Ecuadorian lines were met with resistance and backlash from Ecuadorian president Correa, as well as Venezuelan president Chavez. More recently, Venezuela has been trying to aid Colombian and FARC peace negotiations by encouraging FARC leaders to participate.
While it is difficult to summarize Colombia’s border relations within such a limited space, the examples provided show the interconnectivity of Colombia’s internal happenings and external relations. Next week, I will analyze Colombia’s relationship with Brazil based on resource conflicts.
Colombia: Geopolitics 