Leaders gather for the Esquipulas Regional Forum (FRE) 2025.
Guatemala City — Democracy and peace in the region, development, integration, digital economy, artificial intelligence, climate issues, migration, and geopolitics were the central themes discussed during the 12th edition of the Esquipulas Regional Forum (FRE) 2025.
The event, held on September 11, 2025, marked the 40th anniversary of democracy in Guatemala and brought together regional and global leaders. The forum blended historical memory with a forward-looking vision rooted in pluralism and regional integration.
“In this twelfth edition, we celebrate 40 years of democracy in Guatemala while exploring new routes of integration in Central America. We’ve made important progress in building citizenship and revitalizing political debate both in Guatemala and across the region,” said Olinda Salguero, President of Fundación Esquipulas.
Olinda Salguero, President of Fundación Esquipulas, speaking at the Esquipulas Regional Forum 2025.
She added:
“My generation —the majority of Central Americans— was born in peace and democracy. We owe this to those who were willing to give their lives, time, and existence to shape our present and continue writing our future.”
President Arévalo: “Democracy in Guatemala is advancing”
Bernardo Arévalo speaks at the Esquipulas Regional Forum 2025.
President Bernardo Arévalo, who inaugurated the forum, emphasized that Guatemala has made significant strides in strengthening democracy over the past four decades.
“According to international indicators, democracy deteriorated in 94 countries, while only 55 registered improvements — among them Guatemala, which rose eight positions. These indices confirm that democracy in Guatemala continues to strengthen,” Arévalo stated, adding that democracy must unite all citizens around the understanding that it is “the best and only valid path to solve our problems.” He also expressed gratitude to former President Vinicio Cerezo for being a pioneer of democracy.
Vinicio Cerezo: “Democracy is a daily task”
Former President Vinicio Cerezo speaks at the Esquipulas Regional Forum 2025.
Former President Vinicio Cerezo (1986–1991), the first democratically elected leader after years of conflict and a key signatory of the Esquipulas Peace Accords (1986–1987), reflected on the legacy of the process that helped pacify and democratize Central America.
“Today, life grants me the privilege of being here to commemorate 40 years of democracy in Guatemala and 38 years of the Esquipulas Peace Accords that transformed the region. Forty years ago, I said, ‘Yes, there is a path.’ Today I repeat it with hope — that path is democracy, peace, and Central American integration.”
Cerezo added:
“Democracy is not a trophy of the past; it’s a daily endeavor. The world faces climate crises, misinformation, migration, and inequality — challenges we can only face through democracy, with freedom. That’s why I urge young people: participate, demand, propose, and surpass us — because citizen participation is the music of democracy and integration.”
Recognition of Fundación Esquipulas and the history of the Foro Regional Esquipulas
Sergio Díaz, President of the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), praised the forum’s impact and the work of Fundación Esquipulas:
“Strengthening peace, democracy, development, and regional integration is essential to building a sustainable and interconnected region of opportunities.”
Verónica Yacabalquiej, a participant in the Central American Emerging Leaders Encounter (ECLE) 2024, expressed gratitude for the platform Fundación Esquipulas provides:
“Each of us plays a key role in driving transformation through inclusive development models and women’s leadership — to reduce inequality gaps and be part of lasting change.”
Mirciny Moliviatis, Guatemalan culinary ambassador and forum panelist, reflected on how gastronomy can foster integration:
“My grandmother once told me that cooking isn’t just about filling a stomach — it’s about nourishing the heart. When Olinda invited me to participate, I could only think about how cuisine is a universal language of integration. Guatemala has over 20 languages, but one ingredient unites us all — corn — a thread that ties us to the rest of Latin America.”
Former Ecuadorian President Jamil Mahuad, another distinguished guest, emphasized the symbolism of Guatemala’s democratic journey:
“There couldn’t be a better reason to come to Guatemala — 40 years of democracy and 38 of the Esquipulas Accords. I remember being young and seeing Guatemala as a beacon of light in Latin America.”
Vice President Karin Herrera at the Esquipulas Regional Forum 2025.
Finally, Vice President Karin Herrera, who delivered the closing remarks, reaffirmed the country’s democratic commitment:
“Thanks to the Esquipulas Regional Forum, we renew the commitment made four decades ago, when democratic hope opened the path to the aspirations of entire generations. After 40 years of democracy, we recognize there is still work to do — and only together can we build a nation where dignity and wellbeing are a reality for all.”
Since its founding in 2010 by Fundación Esquipulas for Central American Integration, the Esquipulas Regional Forum has become a plural and strategic space that connects historical memory with contemporary challenges — fostering civic education, revitalizing political dialogue, and inspiring new generations of citizens.
The forum is a joint effort by Fundación Esquipulas, the Global Peace Foundation, and the Latin American and Caribbean Presidential Mission — working together to build a region of opportunities through peace and sustainable development.
For more information, visit: www.fororegionalesquipulas.org/foro-regional-esquipulas-2025
