Using landscape approaches to understand peacebuilding policy coherence: A case study of Caquetá, Colombia

We analyzed policy coherence within the Colombian Integrated Rural Reform (Reforma Rural Integral; RRI) peacebuilding policy, using landscape approaches (LAs). Landscape approaches link agricultural practices, institutions, and policies, providing an effective conceptual framework for coherence in policy objectives, instruments, and implementation for effective landscape governance, a key driver of stability in post-conflict areas in which competing demands for land use and natural resources require strategic management. We empirically examined coherence, or consistency, across and within the RRI, as well as the extent in which the RRI is consistent with LAs. The RRI is one of six parts of the 2017 Colombian peace agreement, whose objectives and instruments are designed in a cross-sectoral manner, recognizing that single sector approaches are inadequate for resolving Colombia’s post-conflict complexities. We analyzed the programs with a focus on territorial development (PDETs), and the RRI’s implementation mechanism in four municipalities in the Department of Caquetá, Colombia to examine coherence between the PDET’s problem and vision statements and PDET initiatives, as well as PDET coherence with the RRI’s objectives. The PDETs and the RRI were then qualitatively compared for consistency with the 10 LA principles. The study identified incoherence within PDET initiatives and problem and vision statements, specifically regarding land initiatives, although stronger coherence was noted between the RRI and PDET vision statements. Our findings show that the current peacebuilding policy instruments in Colombia fall short of being consistent with LAs. Evidence suggests that the policy is especially lacking in LA principles concerned with participation and rights in implementation, two areas that are often fraught in post-conflict landscapes. Aligning policy instruments, budgets, and territorial decision making with LA principles is essential for translating peacebuilding commitments into effective landscape governance.