One of the strongest political forces in Columbia today has nothing to do with the organized government. The FARC is a force to be reckoned with and the world is just beginning to understand how far their influence reaches.

The FARC is an organization that has long been active in Columbia. Currently numbering in the thousands, the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia have taken control of many aspects of daily life in this South American country.

People who live in the area or even those who follow terrorist activities throughout the world are aware of the impact that FARC is having. Everything from drug trafficking to murder has been attributed to them.

FARC has made the headlines several times in the United States after capturing their citizens in Columbia. These kidnappings were brutal and the victims often innocent save for the fact that they were American citizens.

The U.S. enjoyed a small victory in late 2004 when the leader of FARC was arrested and taken to the United States from Columbia to face charges related to drugs. Although this did have an impact on the group, it was just a small drop in the bucket and they were back to their ways within a very short period of time.

The influence of this group reaches beyond the boundaries of Columbia. In fact in recent years others who have been suspected of terrorism have been arrested while trying to aid the FARC. Two men from Ireland where taken into custody when they were trying to leave Columbia for supplying weapons to the group. This is just one example of how the FARC has tied worldwide.

There has been a great deal of tension between FARC and the government of Columbia. In fact, so much tension that the UN has had to step into the fray and put mediations rules in place. One reason for this is the number of civilians who are either injured or killed because of conflicts with between FARC rebels and the government.

In an effort to stop this innocent bloodshed the government of Columbia adopted a new policy which allowed rebels the opportunity to turn in their weapons in exchange for immunity of prosecution. This was seen as a sincere effort to aid all of the young men who were part of FARC but wanted out.

One of the main reasons that it has become increasingly difficult for the government of Columbia to take control has to do with economics. The FARC, because of the nature of their activities, is much wealthier than the government. This has given them more power and control. The government has been fighting an uphill battle trying to regain their footing against this rebel militia. The United States has also taken a stand and is trying to aid the people and the government of Columbia.

With an increase in funds being directed into the economy the hope is that the people of Columbia, along with the government will be able to regain some control. This may be a lofty goal but it certainly would result in less deaths for the innocent people who live in this part of the world.