Exclusion, exploitation and racism are the basic traits of the Guatemalan History. It is also a history of constant violence and repression that prevails in its post conflict stage. Despite the commitments achieved 20 years ago when the Peace Agreements were signed, few have been complied. All in all, as in most armed conflicts, the most vulnerable and excluded continue to suffer the most after the armed conflict has ended. In this case, it’ s the indigenous populations.
The structural causes of the armed conflict remain almost intact. Access to land, opportunities and full recognition of equal rights continues to be an aim and the main demand of the indigenous people and the poor. Socio-economic exclusion, discrimination and violence have new faces, but in essence are the same. The increasing motivation to migrate from this environment is understandable and painful when one acknowledges the community and family disruptive effects as the dangers involved in such ordeals. Yet, until opportunities are developed for the young to stay with a more right respectful environment, changes will not be achieved.
Aiming to influence the achievement of a more just an equal history is possible and Guatemala is inhaling new democratic airs that can advance this era. Faith in humanity, should never be lost.
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