Yesterday the band of terrorist known as ETA (Euskadi Ta Askatasuna in Basque) announced an end to armed conflict after half a century of violence and 800 assassinations. This is an historic milestone but not perfect, because the ETA has not dissolved its organization or turned in its arsenal of weapons. The move could signify a victory for democracy, but remains incomplete until the group completely disbands.
The communication from yesterday changed the phrase "stop armament" to "complete end." Clearly the band has altered its language in order to meet their objective under the protection of the new San Sebastián Peace Conference. They are following lines drawn during the forum last Monday not to sideline their objectives, but to create a more favorable environment in which they can negotiate.
That is a logical move if we bear in mind that the leftist organization is ensnared with financing problems, the most effective Franco-Spanish collaboration and the proximity of the November 20 elections that presage a Partido Popular government that approaches the terrorist staunchly. So, they are trying to lend a helping hand to Rubalcaba at the last minute.
But the ETA members are sticking to their guns and clamoring for justice, without dedicating a single consolation to their victims -- only to their prisoners and partners -- or repenting past crimes. And they are making changes under the veil of French and Spanish governmental mandates which require them to negotiate as if of the same mind even though they are quite disparate.
Yesterday's announcement represents a significant step forward. It ushers in a stable horizon for Basque society and economy and hope for the democrats, but not without opening new and difficult fronts related to political and party machinations.
