Beyond the Uniform: Analysing the Nexus of Privilege-based Violence and Militarisation of Public Security in the Context of the Colombian Protests of 2019 & 2021

Abstract

"Beyond the Uniform: Analysing the Nexus of Privilege Violence and Militarisation of Public Security in the Context of Colombian Protests of 2019 & 2021" explores the impact of militarisation on civil-military relations during the Colombian protests of 2019 and 2021. The study analyses the behaviour of state security forces, with particular emphasis on traditional law and order maintenance police units; the Anti Disturbance Squadron/Dialogue & Order Maintenance Unit (ESMAD/UNDMO); the military, and their interactions with civilian protesters, examining the factors that contributed to the escalation of asymmetrical violence. Using qualitative research methods, including interviews with activists, security officials and protesters, as well as analysis of official reports, the thesis investigates how the militarisation of public security has affected the civil rights principles of Colombia following the peace agreement of 2016. Consequently, how this could have influenced the development of security policy concerning social mobilisation, marginalised communities, expression of social grievances and the exercise of the right to protest. In addition to analysing the impact of militarisation on civil-military relations, the thesis also employs Kleinfeld's theory of "privilege violence" to contextualise the state's institutionalised use of force against civilian discontent in Colombia. The findings of the study highlight the importance of analysing the interplay between military and civilian authorities in maintaining a balance between traditional security and the promotion of human rights. In the case of Colombia, the security sector’s use of force against protesters can be understood as a manifestation of privilege violence, as previous security regimes have institutionalised the delegitimisation of social movements to maintain power and protect the interests of elites. The study argues that the excessive use of security forces in non-military missions has further exacerbated the already fragile civil-military relations in Colombia, ultimately contributing to a deterioration in the opportunities for cooperation and relationship-building, as well as democratic norms and principles in the aftermath of the 2016 peace agreement.