Colombia and the United States: Providing for Their Common" Defense"

Abstract

Abstract : The most significant threat to United States national interests, regional security and international security in the Western Hemisphere is the long, complex and violent internal war in Colombia. Colombia and the United States have been closely tied politically and economically since the United States recognized the young republic in 1822. In the last three decades, the demand for illicit drugs in the United States has fueled the conflict. Concurrently, the United States assistance has been rendered to Colombia through the narrow scope of counterdrug programs. This analysis and other sequential approaches of political support, economic support or direct military assistance treat symptoms not the disease. Both the analysis and prospective solution set, pertaining to Colombia, must address the root of the problem. Colombia is engaged in protracted counterinsurgency that threatens its sovereignty. Notably since the 1980s, the United States has centered its efforts and tethered its assistance to Colombia to the counterdrug war.