Guatemala — an upper-middle income country with a GDP per capita of more than 4500 US dollars — has huge development potentials. Guatemala has improved its income opportunities, educational facilities and other aspects that improved the living standards of its people. Because of its rich natural resources, growing industries including the coffee industry and a large domestic market, it has development potentials in economic and other terms that can facilitate human development further. Among others, its favorable strategic locations and diverse biodiversity and cultural heritage can also help attract foreign direct investment and enrich tourism. With proper investment in sustainable tourism and infrastructure, Guatemala has the opportunity to become a leading destination for eco-tourism and cultural experiences in Central America.
But there are infrastructural, gang crimes-based and other challenges to development in Guatemala, which became independent from Spain in 1839. Notably, economic inequality, infrastructure gaps (particularly in rural areas) and the high level of poverty remain significant obstacles to fully realizing the development potentials of the country. Additionally, political instability, high levels of violence and gang activity and corruption within the government pose significant barriers to economic and other sorts of progress in Guatemala, hindering sustainable development. Among others, the weak rule of law, the violations of various rights (including the threats against freedom of speech over corruption report), the degradation of natural resources and vulnerability to natural disasters, including hurricanes and earthquakes also pose notable challenges to development in Guatemala.
Photo credit: https://www.planetware.com/.
Hopefully saying, policy-based and other steps of the government of Guatemala, the largest economy in Central America, have helped address various challenges to development and made economic development and progress towards relative political stability. Guatemala has been implementing various plans and policies (including the “K’atun 2032” National Development Plan that aims at achieving sustainable progress within the year 2032) to promote economic growth, invest in infrastructures and facilitate rural and community development, which immensely contribute to its development. Among others, Guatemala promotes entrepreneurship, takes steps to reduce corruption and fosters collaboration with international organizations that aim to create a more stable and prosperous ground, needed for economic growth and development for all.
But there are implementation-oriented and other flaws in the steps, leading to limited outcomes of the development efforts of Guatemala, which is still trying to recover from the impacts of the 36-year-long civil war. There is a lack of funding for infrastructure projects, a lack of implementation of development plans and policies and ineffective policies to combat corruption. These issues hinder progress in improving living conditions and economic opportunities — perpetuating income inequality and poverty in the country. Among others, government steps are also less to address the challenges of institutional weaknesses and concerns of marginalized and indigenous communities including Maya (which makes up about half of the population), Garífuna and Xinka peoples.
Photo credit: https://edition.cnn.com/.
The development challenges of the Republic of Guatemala need to be addressed. But increased investment in infrastructure and technology can support economic growth and create job opportunities for the population. Additionally, addressing high rates of violent crime, a major concern that continues to pose significant development challenges, and other gang activities including drug trafficking and promoting transparency in government practices can help create a more conducive environment for development in Guatemala and promote stability. The vulnerability to natural disasters like hurricanes and droughts also needs to be addressed. Addressing the inequality including the inequality of indigenous Maya and other groups is vital.
But the political and other concerns need to be addressed. Addressing challenges to media freedom is vital for the development of Guatemala. Peace efforts are also vital and can be greatly helpful for resolving border disputes between Guatemala and Belize. But the strengthened collaboration with local government officials, community leaders and international organizations including non-government organizations to develop sustainable solutions may help address the root causes of poverty and inequality in Guatemala and promote development.
