Capítulo 8: No matarás. Relato histórico del conflicto armado

The Complexity of Violence and Democracy in Colombia

The Nature of War and Its Triggers

• Almost all wars, whether international or internal, have a defining moment that marks their beginning, such as the assassination of an archduke or the invasion of territory.

• Wars accumulate grievances, leading to deeper wounds that persist despite disarmament efforts, truces, and peace processes.

Historical Context of Violence in Colombia

• Colombia has experienced a complex relationship between war, reconciliation, and reforms throughout its history. Various actors have resorted to violence for resolving disputes ranging from ideological to everyday issues.

• The historical narrative is structured around the evolution of conflict over time, emphasizing the dialectical nature between periods of intense violence and moments of peace agreements.

Key Themes in Understanding Conflict

• The chapter titled "No matarás" serves as a historical account aimed at contextualizing the Colombian conflict while focusing on democracy's formation within the state. It highlights how conflicts evolved over time with both continuities and ruptures.

• Significant moments in history are identified where various actors made decisions impacting either war or peace outcomes. This narrative spans nearly a century from 1958 to 2016.

The Role of Truth Commission

• The Truth Commission aims not just to recount violence but also to clarify events during the armed conflict between insurgents from 1958 to 2016. It seeks understanding rather than mere documentation.

• "No matarás" reflects on violence as a fundamental issue undermining Colombian democracy; it emphasizes that overcoming this challenge is essential before addressing other societal problems like corruption or racism.

A Call for Change