The militarisation of security.
Lack of police capability and the scale of Guatemala's security challenges mean that the military role in combatting organised crime will continue, despite concerns. President Jimmy Morales recently announced that the military would continue to support police with domestic security. This comes as security challenges remain acute, particularly in urban areas and the northern Peten department.
Peten will remain the focus point of drug trafficking activity, though extortion in urban areas will be a more pressing concern.
Public pressure for a tough approach to crime means that periodic excesses by security forces will continue to be tolerated.
While Guatemala faces similar security challenges to neighbouring countries, there is little prospect of increased cooperation.
