Aproximación a una sociología del proceso de paz guatemalteco (1996–2002)

Abstract

This article sets out from the observation that Guatemala is still involved in a complex and difficult process of transition to full democracy as defined in the Peace Accords. The difficulty is explained by the body of resistance offered by both traditional and “new” organized sectors aimed at configuring the new State in their own particular image. It is suggested that this manifests itself in conflicts between four more or less complex political-ideological camps, and the underlying actors in each camp. The present government acts as a center of gravitation between them; but it is an actor which, far from helping to resolve the country’s chronic governability crisis, actually nourishes it. The forthcoming elections should, therefore, provide material to reflect on regarding the challenges facing Guatemala as a nation.