There have been fewer armed conflicts in Latin America in recent years. Peace agreements have been signed, truth committees set up and reconstruction begun in Guatemala and El Salvador. This does not automatically mean that the violence has actually decreased, because in many countries criminal or 'normal' violence increased as armed conflict decreased. Former armed combatants and child soldiers must redefine their place in society; armies and police forces are frequently reformed and their numbers reduced. Moreover, there are often many (small) weapons in circulation. The end of an armed conflict does not automatically mean the end of violence.

 

In Latin America, IKV Pax Christi works in Colombia, where conflict has raged for decades. We also work in Cuba, a country under a totalitarian regime that maintains tight control where the freedom of civilians is at issue. IKV Pax Christi has been working in these two countries for more than 20 years to support victims and encourage local projects that promote peace and a society in which civilians' rights are respected.