Message from the Editor

Dear Colleagues,

The electronic journal of CHDS, “Security and Defense Studies Review,” begins its sixth year of publication with a set of academic research articles that embody the title of the publication or a variation thereof as the thesis for their contributions.

Felipe Kern Moreira leads the way with his work on the theoretical basis for threat perception, which undergirds the necessity for security and defense in the first place.  His multidisciplinary approach sheds valuable light on the scope of analysis that is required in contemporary formulation of policy.

Francesca Ramos Pismataro and Andrés Otalvaro Henao contribute to the general theme by studying the conceptual evolution of security and defense in Venezuela under Hugo Chávez, detailing the transition in this particular case from the conventional precepts of international defense and security to those seen by the regime as more responsive to the particular interests of Venezuela and the repercussions of such a direction on the armed forces and society of the country.

Juan Carlos Ruiz Vasquez follows with a look at the changing focus and defense and security strategy and challenges of another Andean country, Ecuador.  He analyzes the contemporary change of focus from the traditional confrontation with Perú and the ensuing defense and security policies, to the new challenges of being the neighbor of Colombia as that country deals with multiple security and defense challenges.  He suggests that a better balance between internal and external factors would be useful.

Rubén Sánchez David and Federmán Rodríguez branch their study to the relationship of security and economics in the particular case of Brazil.  Their work embodies both theoretical and historical perspectives, seeking to determine the effects of different economic policies in the Vargas Estado Novo, the import substitution interlude, and the National Security Doctrine era on security and defense in Brazil.

Vicente Torrijos R. completes this edition with a study involving sixteen parameters of the Colombian security system, employing what he deems to be a “hyper-realist” and transformational perspective.  He analyzes the Democratic Defense and Security Policy of the Colombian government with this conceptual framework, and seeks to shed light on the adaptability of the contemporary Colombian security and defense sector to address the multiple challenges confronting the country.

I hope that you continue to enjoy the offerings of the CHDS electronic journal and that you find them significant and useful.  As always, we invite comment on any piece published in the SDSR, and continue to seek further contributions for future editions of the ejournal.

Cordially,

Richard D. Downie, Ph. D.
Director, CHDS

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