heks

Guatemala has witnessed one of Latin America's worst civil wars. The 1996 peace treaty did indeed end the armed conflict – but peace is still proving elusive. The very unequal distribution of natural resources – fertile land in particular – is one of the greatest obstacles to a peaceful future and a decent life for all.

Although formal democracy was restored in Guatemala in 1985, government bodies are extremely weak and can hardly influence the country's development.

Real political and economic power lies with just a few members of the economic elite, who largely disregard the law. The military is still yet another major power factor. In parallel there is a vibrant social movement in Guatemala that is militating for long overdue economic, social and political reforms. Today’s indigenous organisations are the strongest social force in the country and are courageously and resolutely striving to assert and defend their basic rights.

Aims, points of focus, initiatives:

HEKS focuses on three geographical regions in Guatemala: the San Marcos and Jalapa highlands, as well as Ixcán in the north of the Quiché Department. It works mainly with local organisations by supporting their projects and advising and monitoring them.

HEKS is helping small peasant families to achieve food self-sufficiency. They should be able to grow enough wholesome food on their own small plots and sell any surpluses locally to boost their income. Farmers are also learning how to farm without chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

Local organisations are being encouraged to assert their rights independently vis-à-vis the authorities.

HEKS supports village communities and groups in defending their rights. In the San Marcos and Jalapa regions, interests associated with local and foreign companies are threatening the livelihoods of indigenous peasant families. Those who courageously assert their rights and those of their communities merit the necessary protection.

HEKS also encourages its partner entities to share experiences, in hopes of strengthening local stakeholders for determining their own development.