Colombia: The FARC's Carrot-and-Stick Strategy

The Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) announced plans to release 10 hostages and cease the kidnapping of civilians for extortion. Simultaneously, the FARC remains engaged in its militant activities, devoting particular attention to energy extraction facilities. Claims that a major oil producer may halt operations due to security concerns highlight the ability of the FARC to pressure Colombia on key economic matters while simultaneously offering peaceful concessions. The FARC hopes to exploit these needs to draw the government into negotiations, but the government will continue to be cautious about agreeing to peace talks.