Interview
Why are so many Colombians becoming mercenaries? | The Economist
- Approximately 10,000 Colombians are currently estimated to be fighting in foreign conflicts, with projections indicating this number will grow significantly.
- A steady outflow of soldiers is anticipated due to the retirement of the large cohort that joined the armed forces during the early 2000s, compounded by career rules forcing exit upon turning 45 or after 20 years of service.
- Around 13,000 soldiers are reported to have voluntarily left the armed forces since President Gustavo Petro assumed power.
- Mercenarism is expected to increase, driven by foreign conflicts offering superior pay, work, and purpose compared to current domestic conditions for veterans.
- The ratification of the UN Anti-Mercenary Convention is predicted to have minimal impact on the flow of mercenaries, as most hiring nations have not ratified the agreement.
- The Colombian government may face diplomatic repercussions from citizens' involvement in serious crimes abroad, including the assassination of Haiti's president.
- Military skills acquired by Colombians in conflict zones, such as drone warfare, are forecast to integrate into domestic gang violence.
- Government action to restrict mercenary recruitment and hiring beyond its borders is anticipated to remain limited until more countries ratify the UN Anti-Mercenary Convention.
- Private armies and the global movement of mercenaries are expected to persist as ongoing phenomena.
- The adoption of measures to stem the flow of citizens abroad is predicted, alongside the possibility of the government providing enhanced veteran support to remove incentives for leaving.