Nicaragua and The Esquipulas II Accord: Setting The Record Straight

Abstract

The signing of the August 1987 Esquipulas II Accord was heralded as a major achievement in Central American political life. All five sitting governments pledged their support for the various provisions of the Guatemala accord. Interesingly enough, it has been the tiny country of Nicaragua which has been singled out by the court of world opinion as the linch-pin of the Central American peace process. Many observers, from inside and outside of government, have focused their energies almost exclusively on how Nicaragua has sought to fulfil its obligations under the Guatemala accord. The compliance or non-compliance record of the ruling Sandinistas has, in effect, been subjected to intense international and media scrutiny. While much has been said and written about Nicaragua's failure to comply with the terms of the Esquipulas II accord, there is little evidence to support such a contention. In fact, the Ortega government has exhibited a remarkable willingness to fulfill, and indeed surpass, the letter and the spirit of the Guatemala accord. By doing so, the Sandinistas have signalled their firm commitment to securing a firm and lasting peace in Central America.