In 1997, just after the signing of the Peace Accords in Guatemala, DIHR visited Guatemala because members of the the justice sector expressly asked for reforms to be initiated. Discussions began with justice sector institutions, but due to various developments in Guatemala around that time, cooperation was initiated with the Ministry of the Interior. It was decided to develop a planning cycle, i.e. to implement a value-based integrated planning system in the Ministry, defining a vision for the Ministry, the planning base, i.e. the situational analysis, and the action plan for achieving the desired changes.
A planning unit was established in the Ministry, a planning cycle was developed, and limited consultations were held with civil society. During the duration of the cooperation, from 1998 to 2004, the Ministry had seven different ministers, and eleven different responsible vice ministers. However, due to the high professional level and the political neutrality of the planning unit, the planning system survived in the ministry, and after the end of the formal cooperation, the planning unit was integrated, financially and physically into the Ministry.
Throughout the cooperation with the Ministry, dialogue was maintained with the Coordinating Instance of the Modernisation of the Justice Sector, however, a justice sector approach never materialised. Communication continues with the planning unit of the Ministry of the Interior and various civil society organisations, and it is hoped that potential regional activities can build also on the experience gained in Guatemala.
Contact persons: Annali Kristiansen and Anders Folmer Buhelt