Gender and Forgiveness in Post-conflict Colombia

• In Event: Transitional Justice and Post-Conflict Repair

Abstract

Scholarly literature, alongside popular belief, often portrays women as inherently more peaceful than men. While women are often associated with peaceful character traits, such as empathy, men are generally seen as more aggressive and intolerant. However, these depictions of men and women may not be accurate in all cases. In post-conflict settings, women appear to be more resistant to peacebuilding attempts than men. For example, a recent article by Karen Brounéus (2014) reveals that Rwandan women exhibit stronger opposition than men to post-genocide reconciliatory efforts. Using data from the Americas Barometer from 2013 to 2018, I similarly find that Colombian women are less willing to forgive and coexist with reintegrating FARC rebels than men. To determine why men and women feel differently about the reintegration of former FARC combatants, I employ a mixed methods approach. In addition to data from the Americas Barometer, I also interview Colombian civilians. Based on my preliminary analysis, it appears that women are more resistant to peace efforts due to the perceived threat reintegrating insurgents pose to their physical safety.

Author

• Dylan Forrester, University of California, Davis