Challenges of War

Peasant Reserve Zones and Conflict Resolution in Rural Colombia

Abstract

This policy brief looks at promoting Peasant Reserve Zones (ZRC) as a model for strengthening peasant communities affected by the ongoing-armed conflict in Colombia. It will also consider the direct relationship between violence, land grabs and the systematic implementation of neoliberal policies in the countryside. Likewise, this monopolistic occupation of land represents a delivered attempt to restrict peasant communities from their access to suitable territories and natural resources, often threatening traditional livelihoods. This policy brief highlights the reconfiguration of peasant communities by designing developmental alternatives at ZRC to confront land accumulation dynamics. By providing peasants with control over their territories and natural resources in ZRC the continual development of rural communities in conflict-prone areas will be guaranteed.