Country Profiles
Challenges faced by developing nations in Cuba and Latin America: A priority for the Disarm Education Fund
The countries of Latin America, a region of great natural beauty and cultural history, have long been characterized by inequality, poverty, and poor governance. For many decades the United States provided economic and military assistance to oppressive governments in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, and trained and armed the contra forces to overthrow the revolutionary Sandinista regime that came to power in Nicaragua in the 1980s. Several hundred thousand people, mostly civilians, died in these wars.
While the political violence of the 1970s and 80s has subsided significantly, Latin America still faces serious challenges in the consolidation of democracy, protection of human rights, and in ensuring health and well-being for its citizens.
The economic and social conditions at the root of armed conflict still persist. Reducing poverty and implementing equitable development strategies are among the most pressing challenges Latin Americans face today. Disarm is hard at work in these regions creating partnerships and developing programs that will bring hope to millions of families.
Learn more about the challenges faced by these nations:
