Labor unions across the isthmus are seeking to establish common strategies to face the impending Association Agreement between Central America and the European Union. During a conference held in Guatemala City, labor leaders discussed the main threats to union activity in the region which include a growing informal economy, an increase in temporary contracts with few benefits, the persistent violation of international labor conventions and widespread discrimination against women and indigenous people in the workplace. Unionists stated that they do not oppose the Association Agreement per se but that any treaty must be understood as much more than a free trade agreement and must prioritize the economic and social conditions in both Central America and Europe .

According to recent police figures, El Salvador 's murder rate has decreased by 13% over the past year. This means that El Salvador has gone from ten murders a day to nine. In September last year police chief Rodrigo Ávila stated that this was positive but still not sufficient. But in December, Ávila appeared far more upbeat and stated that there was a "substantial" decrease in criminal activity last year. Meanwhile, a recent survey shows that most Salvadorans are still hugely concerned about security. Over 50% of respondents said that the government had been minimally or not at all effective in tackling violence.

By Louisa Reynolds

Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim has his eyes set on Central America . After the Mexican-Panamanian consortium CILSA-Minera María, of which he is a major shareholder, was awarded a major excavation contract for the Panama Canal extension, the multi-millionaire was able to consolidate his investments in the region. However, the tendering process has been surrounded by controversy and doubts linger over the extent to which contracts have been awarded transparently.

The National Program for Competiveness (PRONACOM) was set up by the Berger government in 2004 when the administration laid the foundations for a long-term investment plan. Under President Berger, the National Agenda for Competiveness, which establishes the guidelines for investment for the 2005-2015 period, was also set up. With the Colom administration due to take office on January 14, the private sector is eager to ensure the continuity of this agenda. Until now, the business sector has benefited from PRONACOM's initiatives. However, the program now faces an uncertain future with Berger's departure from the presidential office. Social democrat Álvaro Colom will need to strike a balance between his proposed social welfare programs, a central aspect of his political campaign, and pro-business investment programs in order to satisfy all interests involved.

By Luis Solano

Translated by Louisa Reynolds

When SOA Watch activist Roy Bourgeois returned from a visit to Costa Rica in May last year, he expressed great satisfaction that President Arias gave him his word that Costa Rican police agents would no longer be sent to the former School of the Americas. However, to the dismay of human rights activists in the US and Costa Rica , Security Minister Fernando Berrocal announced in November that a new group of police agents would be sent to the infamous school.

By Luis Solano

Translated by Louisa Reynolds