However, the act does not cover either common crimes or crimes against humanity. The Commission s surprise conclusion that the state committed acts of genocide against the Mayans, therefore, leaves many former and present members of the military and the URNG open to criminal prosecution. The possibility of legal action depends on reforms to make Guatemala s judicial system more effective. The truth, or a close approximation of it, is now in the hands of Guatemalan society. How that information is used depends on the courage of Guatemalans to confront their past.
Nothing is guaranteed.
There are still strong groups that oppose the peace process. David Gairdner is the Coordinator of the Fund for Public Policy Research in Guatemala, which is managed by the International Centre for Human Rights and Democratic Development. The objective of the Fund is to strengthen the ability of organizations in civil society to participate in the implementation of the Guatemalan Peace Accords.