FREEDOM OF ENTERPRISE AND THE RIGHT TO PROTEST

This paper examines the conflict between the right to protest and the rights to freedom of movement and freedom of enterprise in Guatemala. Although demonstrations are a legitimate expression of dissent in a democratic society, they often generate economic losses and restrict mobility and access to basic services. The right to protest is indispensable to democratic life, yet its exercise must be balanced with other rights. The absence of clear regulation concerning public demonstrations has created uncertainty and fostered the criminalization of protest. This paper proposes social dialogue and specific regulation as mechanisms to achieve a balance that benefits society.