Another indigenous authority criminalized and prosecuted for defending democracy1

2026 began with a fourth criminalization and prosecution process against another one of the leaders of the national strike and 106-day uprising to defend democracy, which took place at the end of 2023. Indigenous and ancestral authorities, together with their communities, defended the results of the presidential elections and democratic processes, demanding the resignation of Attorney General Consuela Porras.

Malicious litigation continues against Luis Pacheco and Héctor Chaclán

At a press conference, civil society organizations condemned the continued use of malicious litigation in the criminal proceedings keeping Luis Pacheco and Héctor Chaclán in prison. The two men are accused of terrorism, criminal conspiracy, and obstruction of justice in connection with their participation in the mass demonstrations in defense of democracy in late 2024. Another indigenous leader, Esteban Toc Tzay, has also been charged with the same crimes and is currently under house arrest.

Government presents its Public Policy on Human Rights Defenders

On November 13, the Public Policy on Human Rights Defenders was presented in the Peace Courtyard of the National Palace of Culture. At the ceremony, Guatemalan government authorities unveiled this protection tool, which includes mechanisms to prevent risks and threats, as well as a protection system and investigative protocols for when a human rights defender’s life and safety are under threat.

The struggle and resistance of the Tz’utujil people in Santiago Atitlán

On October 24, the people of Santiago Atitlán succeeded in removing Mayor Francisco Coché from office on charges of corruption. They also succeeded in having the Supreme Electoral Tribunal (TSE) recognize First Councilman Andrés Ajuchán as the new mayor.1

Criminalization and prosecution of justice operators

Guatemala is one of the most dangerous countries for justice operators.

Eight years after the events, a verdict in the Hogar “Seguro” case

Learn more about the water shortage caused by monoculture plantations on the South Coast in the article >The struggle for the right to water on the South Coast: “Water is life, not a commodity”< in our Bulletin No. 53.

UN Special Rapporteur calls for urgent moratorium on evictions and amnesty for prisoners

We have just scheduled the dates for the next selection process:

•     Opening of the selection process: August 8, 2025.
•     Deadline to receive applications: October 5, 2025.
•     The training and selection week will take place from February 22 to 28, 2025 in Spain.

Find more information here.