GCAP coalitions mobilise communities in Paraguay, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Guatemala

In 2024, GCAP coalitions across Latin America and the Caribbean region convened National People’s Assemblies in Paraguay, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala, fostering grassroots dialogue on economic, social and climate justice. These assemblies brought together diverse communities — including indigenous groups, rural women, youth, civil society organisations, and community leaders — to voice concerns and find out people-centred solutions.

Paraguay: Indigenous rights and climate crisis take centre stage

On August 20, the Paraguayan People’s Assembly was held in the Chaco community, engaging 22 participants, including members of the indigenous Ayoreo people. The gathering united civil society organisations, technical experts, territorial leaders and government authorities to discuss:

• The socio-environmental challenges in the Garaigosode territory of the Ayoreo
• The increasing threat of forest fires
• Sustainable use of natural resources for indigenous crafts
• Impacts of the escalating climate crisis

The assembly underscored the critical need to protect indigenous lands and address the environmental injustices faced by marginalised communities in the Chaco region.

El Salvador: Confronting inequality through collective voice

Held on September 19, the People’s Assembly in El Salvador brought together 25 participants — women, rural women, youth and indigenous peoples to deliberate on:

• The fight to defend life and well-being in their communities
• Persistent poverty, inequality and exclusion
• Pathways to achieve economic, social and climate justice

Participants raised pressing concerns about systemic marginalisation and called for policies that ensure dignified living conditions and justice for all.

Nicaragua: Rural and indigenous voices advocate for justice and the escazú agreement

In rural Nicaragua, 25 participants gathered on August 17 to discuss justice from the perspective of those most affected by climate change and exclusion. With active involvement from rural women, indigenous peoples and local leaders, the assembly focused on:

• Advancing climate and social justice agendas
• Monitoring progress on the implementation of the Escazú Agreement, a regional environmental rights treaty
• Strengthening territorial resilience and participation

The assembly emphasized the importance of legally securing environmental rights and participation of marginalised groups in decision-making processes.

Guatemala: Youth lead call for access to justice and civic engagement

On September 20, the Guatemalan People’s Assembly convened around 70 participants, primarily youth, in the Western Highlands (Altiplano). The discussions centred on:

• Promoting access to justice for marginalised populations
• Enhancing civic communication as a tool for social transformation
• Strengthening youth participation in democratic spaces

Young leaders voiced their commitment to building just societies through civic education and advocacy for inclusive governance.

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