Season 2025, Episode 25: Socioeconomic Factors Driving Coca Cultivation in Colombia | Insights from Spatial Analysis and Geographically Weighted Regression
In this episode of SciBud, join Maple as we uncover a groundbreaking study that delves into the complex relationship between socioeconomic factors and coca cultivation in Nariño, Colombia. With Colombia facing one of Latin America’s highest levels of income inequality, this research highlights how education, violence, and social exclusion intertwine to influence illicit crop production. Utilizing advanced spatial analysis techniques, including Geographically Weighted Regression, the study reveals that areas with higher education levels often see lower coca cultivation rates, while regions plagued by violence tend to foster illicit agricultural activities. Though the findings shed crucial light on potential interventions tailored to local conditions, the study also invites discussion on its methodological strengths and weaknesses. Tune in to learn how this research not only enhances our understanding of socio-economic challenges in Colombia but also lays the groundwork for future policy-making that tackles illicit economies globally.