Military Expenditure in Colombia, 1960-2022

Colombia's military expenditure has mirrored its long-standing internal security challenges. Spending peaked at 4.4% of GDP in 1996, driven by efforts to combat guerrilla groups such as FARC during a period of heightened conflict. Subsequent years saw a gradual decline, stabilizing at around 3.3% in the early 2000s as the government implemented significant security reforms.

From 2010 onwards, expenditures remained steady, averaging 3–3.5% of GDP, reflecting sustained investment in counterinsurgency operations and border security. The slight drop to 3.1% in 2022 highlights a shift toward a balanced approach, focusing on modernization while managing fiscal pressures.