Local Understandings of Disarmament-Demobilization-Reintegration (DDR): Former Combatants’ Perspectives on DDR in Colombia

Abstract

DDR processes, the design of which follows technical knowledge produced by international organizations and programs, have become a standard way for addressing the process of armed groups’ transition from armed to civilian life. However, the components of DDR, namely disarmament-demobilization-reintegration, may themselves be contested at the local level. This study investigates this contestation through the case of the Colombian peace process, with a focus on ex-combatants’ perspectives. Based on extensive fieldwork in Colombia, this study investigates how and why former combatants contest DDR components. Former FARC members rejected disarmament and demobilization terms since they indicate an idea of defeat. They also rejected “reintegration” since, in Colombia, reintegration indicates a different process focusing on individual reintegration. Thirdly, many FARC members refute the term “ex-combatant”, arguing that the group continues its struggle in the political arena. The study contributes to recent research focusing on domestic understandings of international norms and practices in peace processes.