Guatemala plans bold new security strategy for 2017

Subject

Security strategy shift.

Significance

On January 5, President Jimmy Morales announced plans to withdraw the military from civilian security duties by the end of 2017. The security policy shift comes amid indications that crime rates are beginning to fall. However, a reduction of the military’s presence on the streets will see the bulk of security duties fall upon the police force, which continues to struggle with allegations of corruption and may be ill prepared for the task ahead.

Impacts

• The government’s apparent confidence in declining crime rates will be well received by potential investors.
• Should it be successful, the move may encourage similar policies in neighbouring countries that struggle with violent crime.
• The military’s renewed focus on conventional duties may be a warning to Belize in the countries’ border dispute.