Here is the article in markdown format:

Guatemala: Foreign Actors Dominate Criminal Landscape

Guatemala’s criminal underworld is dominated by foreign actors, including Mexican drug cartels and transnational criminal gangs. These international criminal organizations have formed alliances with local groups, exploiting weaknesses in the country’s law enforcement and judicial systems.

The Situation

According to sources within the government and law enforcement agencies, Mexican drug cartels have established a significant presence in Guatemala, using the country as a transit point for cocaine and other illegal drugs destined for the United States. Local gangs, including MS-13 and Barrio 18, have also formed alliances with these cartels, allowing them to expand their operations and diversify their criminal activities.

Victims of Crime Lack Access to Justice

The victims of crime in Guatemala often lack access to justice, with many feeling intimidated or coerced into not reporting crimes. The government has established some programs to support victims and witnesses, but these initiatives are often marred by corruption and a lack of transparency.

• Drug users are often treated as criminals rather than victims.
• There is a severe shortage of resources for treating addiction.
• Civil society organizations have stepped in to fill the gap, providing legal advice, psychological treatment, and other forms of support.

Journalists and Human Rights Activists Under Attack

The situation has taken a toll on press freedom and human rights in Guatemala, with journalists and activists facing increasing attacks. Media ownership is highly concentrated, and many outlets lack impartiality.

• The government’s attempts to modify laws governing NGOs have been criticized by civil society organizations.
• Indigenous people make up almost half of the population but are marginalized at social and political levels.

Economic Regulatory Environment in Need of Reform

Guatemala’s economic regulatory environment is characterized by widespread extortion and a lack of trust in law enforcement capabilities. The government has been criticized for its slow response to corruption, and many small businesses are forced to pay bribes or face intimidation from organized crime groups.

• The country’s weak institutional framework and lack of transparency have created an environment conducive to money laundering and other financial crimes.
• More needs to be done to strengthen regulations and prevent the use of crowdfunding and online gambling for illegal activities.

Border Control Challenges

Guatemala’s borders with neighboring countries are vulnerable to smuggling and illegal activity, with many areas lacking a state presence. The government has established some programs aimed at improving border control, but more needs to be done to address corruption and lack of resources within the law enforcement agencies responsible for border security.

• Effective control would require significant investments in marine and air-force technologies.

Conclusion

Guatemala faces significant challenges in its efforts to combat organized crime and ensure public safety. The dominance of foreign actors in the criminal underworld has created a climate of fear and impunity, with widespread extortion, kidnapping, and murder plaguing the country.

• The government’s efforts to address these issues have been hindered by corruption and lack of resources.
• More needs to be done to strengthen institutions, improve transparency, and provide support to victims of crime.