Originally Posted by
Fenway
Columbia's increased level of security was a result of decades of lawlessness and being the former kidnapping capital of the world. Same thing with Israel. They can't take chances in those countries with peoples' safety from major threats and the level of security naturally curbs other forms of crime. Of course it is a hassle in everyday life.
Don`t know about Isreal, but Colombias increased level of security is largely due to a lack of middle class. About 5% of the population controls 95% of the wealth and having a decent education doesn`t change that. And poverty breeds desperation which breeds crime - it always has.
The military presence on the other hand is the result of what amounted to a civil war within the country when the `drug lords` (read organized crime) decided to chalange the government for control of the country. Very much like martial law was declared in Quebec when a few idiots started kidnapping politicians and setting off bombs.
One difference I picked out quite quickly is that in Colombia the militart personnel are extremely courteous and civil and routinely say good morning to all the school kids they pass on their patrols. Kinda nice!