A summary of the Guatemalan Peace Accords refers to a condensed account of the agreements that formally ended Guatemala’s 36-year internal armed conflict. These accords, signed between 1991 and 1996 by the Guatemalan government and the Guatemalan National Revolutionary Unity (URNG), addressed a wide range of issues, including human rights, indigenous rights, socioeconomic reforms, the role of the military in a democratic society, and transitional justice mechanisms. A comprehensive summary typically highlights the key commitments made by both parties to achieve a lasting peace.
The significance of these agreements lies in their attempt to address the root causes of the conflict, which included deep social and economic inequalities, discrimination against indigenous populations, and human rights abuses. By establishing a framework for reconciliation, democratization, and sustainable development, the accords aimed to build a more just and equitable society. They represent a crucial historical milestone in Guatemala’s transition from authoritarian rule to democracy, though their full implementation has faced ongoing challenges.