Link to article: https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/guatemala-president-slams-us-action-after-new-visa-curbs-announced-2023-12-12/
The president of Guatemala publicly rejected recent actions of the United States government as they attempt to implement new visa restrictions on those who undermine democracy. This new policy is most likely in response to instances of fraudulence, electoral manipulation, and denial of peaceful protests that have occurred recently in Guatemala. One hundred Guatemalan lawmakers have been accused of threatening democracy in some way. Thus, these new regulations have been applied to their visas. Additionally, regulations have been placed on certain members of the private sector causing a collective resentment of the United States.
Upon witnessing the Guatemala Public Ministry acting in a seemingly anti-democratic manner, the United States decided to take action. This is because the goal of the United States government is to maintain democracy, as it is their core value. Thus, they will take any necessary measures to inhibit the spread of opposing ideologies. Tightening restrictions on Guatemalan visas will prohibit those who pose a threat to democracy from entering the country. Additionally, it will serve as an incentive for Guatemalan leaders to return their state to a proper democracy, as they will want the restrictions lifted.
In class, we have discussed the different approaches to security conflicts. Interventionism is a policy by which states insert themselves into the affairs of another state with little or no regard for that state’s opinion. The implementation of new visa restrictions on Guatemala is interventionism in a less direct form. While the United States has not done something as drastic as invade Guatemala, the country has still taken action against them. They are protesting anti-democratic actions by intervening and incentivizing Guatemala’s return to democracy.