Canada disappointed by decision to end International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala

Statement

January 10, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement on Guatemala:

“The International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) has been successful in advancing justice and accountability for the people of Guatemala, and in fighting against impunity for crimes. Canada is deeply disappointed with the Guatemalan government’s announcement that it will unilaterally terminate its agreement with the United Nations and the mandate of the CICIG. Canada has been a strong supporter of Guatemala’s efforts to fight corruption and impunity, including through the CICIG and the work of Guatemala’s public ministry.

“Canada remains committed to supporting justice and accountable governance for the Guatemalan people. We call on the Government of Guatemala to respect the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and the democratic rights of the people and country.”

Quick facts

  • Canada has had a development program in Guatemala since 1976. Canada’s bilateral programming in Guatemala is aligned with Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy and focuses on supporting the most vulnerable, including women and girls, Indigenous peoples and rural populations, through gender equality, human rights, inclusive governance and economic growth.
  • Canada’s security programs, including the Anti-Crime Capacity Building Program and the Peace and Stabilization Operations Program, have funded projects in Guatemala aimed at improving citizen security, justice, and human rights over the past several years.
  • Two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Guatemala was valued at $832.2 million in 2017.

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Contacts

Adam Austen
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs
Adam.Austen@international.gc.ca

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media@international.gc.ca
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