Citizenship Competencies in the Midst of a Violent Political Conflict: The Colombian Educational Response

Abstract

In this article, Enrique Chaux considers the effect that an environment replete with violent political conflict has on children. He cites literature that points to higher levels of aggressive and violent behaviors among children in these settings. Then he examines the case of Colombia and an educational initiative that attempted to foster stronger citizenship competencies among its students. The program, Aulas en Paz,experienced success in lowering aggressive behaviors in students and increasing citizenship competencies among its participants.