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Pending justice

Article Abstract:

A truth commission blames the army for over 90% of murders, disappearances, massacres and torture in Guatemala, where some 200,000 deaths occurred in a civil war lasting 36 years. The dead were mainly Mayan peasants, and the commission describes the deaths as genocide, arguing that reform of the army and trials of those guilty are needed. Massacres were especially common between 1978 and 1983. The government claims that genocide was not involved, but rather that attacks were made against a social class. President Bill Clinton has admitted US responsibility in supporting those involved in the crimes.

International Affairs, Human Rights, Crimes against, Genocide, Mayas

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Portillo's progress

Article Abstract:

The election of Alfonso Portillo as president in Guatemala leads to questions about reform of the army and its links with paramilitary groups. Portillo also faces the more difficult task of applying justice to army officials involved in crimes during and after the country's civil war, which lasted for 36 years. Deaths include Bishop Juan Gerardi, killed after he had published a report on the army's involvement in war crimes. Portillo has been given six months by the human rights office of the church to find the killer of Gerardi.

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The boggy road to peace

Article Abstract:

Political developments in Guatemala, and the role of the army, are examined in detail.

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