PBI in Guatemala

Despite two decades of restored democracy, Guatemala has made little progress toward securing the protection of human rights and the rule of law - both essential if democracy is to succeed.  According to Human Rights First, impunity is still widespread and human rights defenders working to secure accountability for respect for human rights standards are particularly at risk. 

Amnesty International is concerned with the politically motivated misuse of the justice system as well as the issues surrounding agrarian disputes, forced evictions and the situation of the indigenous people.

PBI's first Guatemala Project operated from 1983 to 1999. During those years we worked supporting refugees, unions, indigenous groups, farmers’ organisations, human rights defenders and church members.

In April of 2003 the Guatemala project reopened. Since then, a field team of international observers has provided support and international protection to defenders of human rights.  The work of the project has increased and the team on the ground has stabilised. 

PBI now accompanies 14 organisations nationwide with 10 international observers based in Guatemala City.