ABSTRACT
Communist insurgency movements in various parts of the globe have passed through variable periods of ascent and decline. El Salvador has experienced a vicious cycle of conflict during the past decade. A basically anti-reformist establishment has exacerbated popular grievances which Communist insurgents have exploited in their armed struggles against unstable governments. Guatemala's Communist insurgents have manipulated Indian and ladino grievances in their protracted conflict with the government. They have also sought to build the political and economic foundations of a socialist system in tandem with their armed struggle. A nationwide Communist insurgency also continues to simmer in the Philippines. The guerrilla forces have steadily expanded their armed strength and extended their prolonged people's war to most of the country's provinces. Insurgent leaders envisage the possibility of a military coup or more direct US involvement which could provoke repression, stimulate opposition, and ultimately fuel the Communist insurrection.
