11. Spotlight: Recidivism: Economic and Social Network Factors

Abstract

This Spotlight analyzes the economic factors and social processes that contribute to recidivism among former combatants from illegal armed groups in previous reintegration processes in Colombia, as well as in international contexts such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Afghanistan. We examine how war economies combine with domestic economic dynamics to both perpetuate cycles of participation in illicit sectors, as well as give rise to emergent paths to recidivism. Additionally, the critical but often overlooked role of former mid-ranking commanders in illegal armed groups in disproportionately contributing to recidivism dynamics is examined. Finally, we offer several recommendations for supporting a reincorporation process that addresses early and head-on some of the core contributing factors for ex-combatant recidivism.