Stories written by Oscar Arias Sanchez

No One Is Indispensable in a Democracy

I have put a great deal of thought into whether or not to return to politics. Groups from different political parties, and without party affiliation, have expressed their concern over the current situation in the country and have offered me their support. And the opinion polls indicate that I would have a chance at a third presidential term.

Opinion: Children of the World – We are Standing Watch for You

Twenty-eight years ago this month, an indigenous woman stood in the plaza in Guatemala City, watching as the presidents of Central America walked out into the street after signing the Peace Accords that would end the civil wars in our region. When I reached her, she took both my hands in hers and said, “Thank you, Mr. President, for my child who is in the mountains fighting, and for the child I carry in my womb.”

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Central America: Building the Peace, Brick by Brick

On September 12 the government of Costa Rica commemorated the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Esquipulas II Accord, which restored peace to Central America after a period of conflict that lasted 30 years. The agreement was signed by all countries of Central America.

The Errors of the Present Weigh Heavily on the Future.

The globalised world offers challenges as well as opportunities. This is not a criticism of globalisation; it simply means that while we take advantage of the opportunities it offers we must be sure to address the challenges it presents.

LATIN AMERICA: DEEPENING DEMOCRACY’S ROOTS

Latin American democracy has had to struggle against every kind of ideological experiment and event, some more lethal than others to the ideals of democracy, justice, freedom, and economic growth. Today many countries have forgotten how crucial it is to preserve the rule of law and especially the security of people and their possessions, without which there is neither competitiveness, democracy, nor peace. Until a few years ago it was believed that economic and social development were possible in an environment with weak institutions.

HAITI’S DECISION TO REARM IS AN OBSTACLE TO PEACE, DEVELOPMENT, AND FREEDOM

SAN JOSE, Dec (IPS) After the announcement that the government of Haiti had decided to reconstitute its army, I asked President Michel Martelly to reconsider his decision, pointing out a lesson written clearly into human history: in Latin America, the majority of armies have been enemies of progress, of peace, and of freedom.



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