Daniel talks with Jorge Castaneda, professor of political science at the National University of Mexico in Mexico City, about the current state of rebel groups in Latin America. Castaneda says that though there are still a few very brutal groups left, such as the Shining Path in Peru, most rebel groups have become increasingly mild in their tactics. And recently, in a couple of countries, he notes the guerillas have put down their arms in favor of negotiation and peaceful resolutions. But Castaneda says it still remains to be seen whether or not real reform can take hold in this new 'peaceful' atmosphere. For that to happen, he says, the governments which have traditionally oppressed the lower classes, also will have to make changes.
Copyright 1997 NPR