Dr. Claudia Paz y Paz Bailey:

The role of the United Nations in Guatemala is crucial because the commission against impunity is part of the United Nations. That is why it is so important that its mandate is renewed. It may end in September but the Government could ask the United Nations if it could continue for two further years. Ireland has supported this. That is one of the most important things because it has proved to be an independent body that could investigate corruption, organised crime and the infiltration of organised crime into the Judiciary. That is one of its most important roles. The international community also has an important role in monitoring the advances not only in ordinary justice but also given that there may be another trial in January against Efraín Ríos Montt, the former Head of State. The possibility that this person could be sanctioned again would be strengthened if there is an observer process in place from the international community.