Conflict and Environmental Peace: Tensions and Relations Over Water Governance in the Colombian Catatumbo Region

Objective: Government efforts and initiatives aimed at mitigating socio-environmental conflicts in the Catatumbo region of Colombia have not generated positive results, facing new cycles of armed violence and ongoing social crises that impact local ecosystems. In response, this qualitative research explored the perceptions of environmental leaders and local communities regarding peacebuilding and territorial transformation around water. Method: Using the constant comparative method based on grounded theory, the actions and work of social organisations focused on moving from an extractive economic model to development based on water governance were identified. Results: The findings reveal the potential of leaders, whose cultural identity is reflected in ancestral wisdom, to transform conflicts by recognising nature as an integral part of the community and the territory. Implications of the research: Decision-makers, research centres and academics are urged to strongly support these water-focused land-use planning initiatives, which are aligned with a quintuple helix model for sustainable development that integrates environmental peace. Originality/value: Among the innovations of this study is a theoretical proposal based on the voices of social and environmental leaders, who offer answers and projects that challenge the anthropocentric and utilitarian approach of other development plans. In addition, a regional ontology is proposed that conceives the territory as a social entity capable of strengthening governance from a biocentric perspective that respects natural rights.