Many Faces of Colombia

The Peace building program in Colombia has proved to be a dynamic course. WE were able to learn about the history of Colombia and how events in the past, still exist today such as the peace process and guerrilla groups. The Red Tree study were also able to adapt our timetable to watch Colombia's live and watch the varying affects it would have on the nation.
Learning about the history of Colombia through academic experts, ex-combatants, the British ambassador and victims of the conflict has been a humbling, yet enlightening experience as all these individuals have had a close link in shaping the peace agreement.
The course it self despite being academically challenging, provided students with effective resources to stay up-to-date with the program in addition to the academics being avail if questioned needed to be asked. The most effective part of the course was being able to talking to speak to both the innocent and guilty of the conflict and get an in-depth understanding how they came to fall into the categories of demobilised or ex-combatants. For example, we spoke with two MA students who were previously members of two opposing armed groups that now study together and both explained how they did not have a choice but to join guerrilla groups as it was the only option for them, when growing up. It was extraordinary to understand where they started and see where they are now.

this first hand and interactive method to learning is a once in a life time opportunity. The program was not just focused of theory and statistics, students were able to visit multiple organisations and individuals who played a direct role in either helping ex-combatants reintegrate or re-cooperate into society or were dedicated to implementing certain aspects of the peace accord.