Central America is a region of contrasts. Despite its immense cultural and natural wealth, it faces structural challenges that limit its potential. Forced migration, inequality, lack of opportunities, and corruption have marked its recent history. However, a transformative vision has gained momentum in recent years: the Central American Dream.
Young participants of ECLE2024 during their visit to El Patojismo, learning about successful projects transforming the region
This ideal, promoted by the Global Peace Foundation Central America (GPF), is a call for integration, sustainable development, and the creation of opportunities to advance toward a more equitable and prosperous future. Inspired by the spirit of the Esquipulas Peace Accords, the Central American Dream is not just a concept—it is a concrete commitment to a more united, democratic, and competitive region.
Under the leadership of Olinda Salguero, GPF Central America has focused on fostering a new mindset that breaks the isolation of countries and strengthens a shared Central American identity. Integration must go beyond political or trade agreements; it must take root in society and become a guiding principle of development. The consolidation of peace and the strengthening of democracy are fundamental pillars of this vision. Without strong institutions and engaged citizens, the region will continue to face cycles of instability and distrust in the future.
Despite its small geographic size, Central America is an environmental powerhouse. It is home to over 12% of the world’s biodiversity and boasts the second-largest coral reef on the planet. However, vulnerability to the climate crisis, deforestation, and uncontrolled resource exploitation threaten its natural wealth. GPF Central America has promoted reforestation initiatives and environmental awareness programs that not only restore ecosystems but also create economic opportunities and strengthen communities’ sense of belonging to their environment.
The region’s economic situation also demands a profound transformation. With 65% of its population under the age of 30, Central America has extraordinary human potential that must be harnessed. Leadership training, civic education, and youth empowerment programs are crucial strategies to build a solid foundation for innovation and entrepreneurship. GPF Central America promotes scholarships, conferences, leadership summits, and training in various fields to equip young generations with the tools they need to transform their environment.
Delegates from Global Peace Foundation Paraguay, Atenil, and Chaco Vivo during their visit to Guatemala to learn about FUNDAECO’s ecodevelopment and conservation projects
The migration crisis cannot be addressed without deep structural changes. Lack of decent employment, violence, and the absence of opportunities have made migration a necessity rather than a choice. The Central American Dream aims to create conditions that allow citizens to thrive in their own countries, reducing the reliance on migration as the only alternative for development. For GPF, “Migration should be an option, not the only option,” says Olinda Salguero, emphasizing that efforts are being made to strengthen local development, connect youth with the job market, and improve regional coordination on employment and security policies.
Young participants of ECLE2024 during their visit to ecotourism and local development sites in Antigua Guatemala
Economic integration and digitalization are essential for Central America to compete on the global stage. Improving infrastructure, harmonizing trade regulations, and expanding digital connectivity are key actions for building a more interconnected and dynamic region. GPF Central America collaborates with various sectors to promote cooperation among countries, working alongside Fundación Esquipulas, the Foundation for Ecodevelopment and Conservation (FUNDAECO), and the Latin American and Caribbean Presidential Mission to strengthen regional value chains and leverage technology as a tool to bridge economic, environmental, cultural, and social gaps.
Education and leadership development are fundamental pillars. Without access to quality education, social mobility and development opportunities remain severely limited. That is why GPF Central America promotes education as a tool to transform lives. Through moral and innovative leadership, the organization aims to develop citizens committed to their communities. Training in values, critical thinking, and leadership skills are essential to building a Central America with engaged and prepared citizens capable of tackling future challenges.
According to Vinicio Cerezo, former President of Guatemala (1986–1991), former Secretary-General of the Central American Integration System (2017–2021), and a key promoter of the Esquipulas Peace Accords, “The Central American Dream is the aspiration for an integrated, secure, and democratic Central America—free of hunger and malnutrition—that provides its people with high-quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for prosperity. It envisions migration as an option rather than the only path. A more inclusive and competitive Central America, environmentally sustainable and resilient, digital, innovative, scientific, interconnected, and deeply rooted in a shared regional identity.”
The Central American Dream is not just a political project or an initiative of international organizations; it is a vision that requires the commitment of the entire society. The transformation of the region depends on the will of its citizens, the active participation of youth, and the ability of its institutions to build a more just and sustainable future. GPF Central America has taken the lead in this journey, proving that a more integrated and prosperous Central America is not just an ideal but an achievable goal.
