A Reconstruction of Banishment Stories: Three Case Studies

Abstract

In recent years, some parts of the Cauca, Nariño, and Caldas Departments have been a target of drug dealing-paramilitary groups. Cauca and Nariño, witnessed an initial demobilization of these groups and the consequent decrease in their actions, along a transitional period. Yet, this resulted in a reconfiguration, reacommodation, or readjustment of power as self-defense seeking territorial dominance. It is within this context that three victims of banishment emerge and become the protagonists of three different cases, in our effort to reconstruct their life stories. Attention is paid to such aspects as territorial context, family relationship, work relationship, and citizenship. In each case, the story focuses on the person's expriences before, during, and after banishment, judged here as a premediated despoilment strategy.