The purpose of this thesis was to investigate the connection between the influence of the FARC-EP and the economic development of Colombia. Furthermore, the goal of the research was to examine the influence of the international relations between the US and Colombia on the development of Colombia. In order to successfully conduct the research required for this thesis, a theoretical framework based on Marxism, neo-liberalism, international relations theory with a focus on internal conflict, and theories of war was created. This theoretical framework offered the basis for a broad and extensive study of literature related to the problem area. It presented the opportunity to conduct all-encompassing research, resulting in clear findings.
The research for this thesis comprised various significant elements with regards to the problem formulation, including but not limited to the economic and political development of Colombia, the development of the FARC-EP, the insurgency’s influence on the socio-economic development of Colombia, the influence of violence and internal conflict on the economy, and the implementation and effect of Plan Colombia. The results of the research indicated that the influence of the FARC-EP on the economic development of Colombia cannot be entirely disentangled from the influence of other relevant factors affecting the economic development of Colombia. However, in spite of the strong connection between the various elements that are relevant to the situation of internal conflict in Colombia and their influence on the country’s economy, it could be concluded that the influence of the FARC-EP on the economic development of Colombia is undeniable. This influence could be determined clearly as a result of the insurgency’s strong connection to numerous significant elements related to the economic development of Colombia.