Hidden agenda in Paraguay: The dilemma of external democratization through U.S. military co-operation

Abstract

In 2004 a military agreement between the US and the Paraguayan government with the objective of strengthening the democratization process in this South American country came into effect. With immunity granted to the American forces, both armed forces carried out humanitarian operations and joint exercises. These joint exercises were principally concerned with combating local insurgent and terrorist groups. Paraguay's geo-political position in South America with its important natural resources and the existence of strong social movements in the country leave the observer to doubt the underlying reasons and hence the positive effects of democratization in the face of the disputable practices of the military. This article analyzes the short-term impact on civil society.

Citation

Schünemann, A. (2008), "Hidden agenda in Paraguay: The dilemma of external democratization through U.S. military co-operation", Caforio, G., Kümmel, G. and Purkayastha, B. (Ed.) Armed Forces and Conflict Resolution: Sociological Perspectives (Contributions to Conflict Management, Peace Economics and Development, Vol. 7), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 257-282. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1572-8323(08)07014-8