Hemispheric collaboration addresses common challenges such as protecting democracy, cybersecurity, and combating organized crime. Colombia and NATO contribute learning opportunities to the region. We analyze five areas where both regions can make progress. Security and defense cooperation between Europe and Latin America has gained new momentum in the face of growing geopolitical challenges and transnational threats. The defense of democracy, cybersecurity, disinformation, and organized crime are some shared challenges that require a coordinated response.
The designation of the German Embassy in Colombia as NATO’s liaison embassy for Latin America represents a strategic opportunity to consolidate this relationship.
Democracy and authoritarianism
The defense of democratic values is a central pillar of cooperation between Europe and Latin America. The expansion of authoritarian regimes and the erosion of democratic institutions in Latin America have raised alarm bells in the international community.
From Europe, the defense of democracy has been articulated through initiatives such as the European Neighborhood Policy and programs supporting democratic institutions. To strengthen this cooperation, it is essential to implement mechanisms that allow for the monitoring and sanctioning of external actors who interfere in democratic processes. Likewise, the creation of platforms for political dialogue can facilitate institutional strengthening. Support for civil society organizations and independent media outlets will help consolidate a democratic narrative and counter the influence of authoritarian actors.
An additional challenge comes from the growing influence of China and Russia in the region. Chinese investment in strategic sectors such as mining, telecommunications, and energy could affect institutional and political stability. Russia’s presence in the military and technological spheres adds a complex geopolitical dimension that requires a coordinated strategic response.
Cybersecurity and disinformation
In today’s digital environment, cybersecurity threats and disinformation destabilize democracies and erode public trust. Latin America has been the target of disinformation campaigns directed by state and non-state actors, often linked to external geopolitical interests. A clear example of this dynamic is the spread of fake news during electoral processes in Colombia and Brazil. This has generated deep distrust in institutions and contributed to political and social polarization.
To address this challenge, cooperation with Europe can focus on the exchange of technology and best practices for protecting critical infrastructure. The creation of joint mechanisms to identify and counter disinformation campaigns will enable faster and more effective responses to cyberattacks and manipulation campaigns. Likewise, the development of national and regional cyber defense capabilities will strengthen digital security structures in Latin America.
NATO has identified cybersecurity as a priority for cooperation with Colombia. The German Embassy, as a contact embassy, could facilitate the transfer of technology and specialized training, strengthening cyber defense capabilities in the region.
Transnational organized crime
Drug trafficking, human trafficking, and arms smuggling, among others, represent a shared challenge for Latin America and Europe. Colombia’s experience in the fight against drug trafficking and armed insurgency positions it as a strategic partner for NATO and the EU.
Drug trafficking to Europe has increased recently, leading European security agencies to seek closer cooperation with Colombia. To what end? To disrupt drug trafficking routes and weaken criminal networks operating on both continents. Joint operations and strengthening intelligence capabilities are essential to reducing the impact of organized crime and improving transatlantic security.
Colombia as a NATO partner
Since its designation as a NATO Global Partner in 2017, Colombia has consolidated its role as a strategic ally through joint military exercises and peacekeeping missions. The German Embassy, as a point of contact, will allow for expanded cooperation in the region. Furthermore, it will be able to promote a comprehensive security approach that combines military defense and citizen security.
Trilateral cooperation between Latin America, Europe, and NATO can also extend to peacekeeping and crisis response operations. Colombia’s experience in complex scenarios, combined with NATO’s logistical and strategic capabilities, will allow for the development of a more robust and effective security architecture in the region.
Prospects for strategic cooperation
Security and defense cooperation between Europe and Latin America is projected to become a key component of transatlantic relations in the coming decade. The growing presence of China and Russia in the region has led European actors to seek to consolidate their influence through security and economic cooperation mechanisms. The concept of friend-shoring, which involves shifting supply chains to allied countries, offers an opportunity to strengthen security and defense cooperation.
Colombia’s experience in combating organized crime and drug trafficking, along with NATO’s strategic support, positions the country as a key partner in developing a regional security architecture. Likewise, security cooperation could extend to environmental security. In this area, Colombia and NATO could develop joint protocols to address climate threats and natural disasters, leveraging NATO’s experience in rapid response to humanitarian crises.
Opportunity for both regions
Europe and Latin America face common security and defense challenges that require deeper strategic cooperation. The defense of democracy, cybersecurity, the fight against organized crime, and regional stability are areas where Colombia’s expertise and NATO’s support can make a substantial difference. The designation of the German Embassy as NATO’s contact embassy in Colombia represents an opportunity to strengthen this cooperation and consolidate a more robust and effective transatlantic alliance.
*Text originally published in Spanish on Diálogo Político website — translation performed by artificial intelligence.
Autor
Master's degree in National Security and Defense from the Escuela Superior de Guerra (Higher School of War) and a political scientist from the Pontifical Javeriana University. Project coordinator at the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Colombia and founder of ATHENA, a network of women in security and defense.
