U.S. Statement at the Universal Periodic Review of Guatemala
42nd Session, January 25, 2023
Delivered by Mr. Timothy Johnson
Thank you, Mr. Vice President.
The United States welcomes the delegation of Guatemala.
We commend Guatemala’s steps to address human trafficking. We remain concerned that judicial independence is threatened by corruption in nominee selections, intimidation of prosecutors investigating corruption, and impunity for threats and attacks against journalists and civil society members.
In the spirit of constructive engagement, we recommend that Guatemala:
1. Strengthen its judiciary by appointing qualified, impartial justices to ensure fair trials and defend the rule of law.
2. Cease reprisals against civil servants and justice officials for defending human rights and fighting corruption, and investigate and prosecute attacks on human rights defenders, labor leaders, and the press.
3. Ensure the ombudsman for human rights and the special prosecutor for crimes against journalists and trade unionists have the mandate and independence to defend journalistic freedom and labor rights.
We wish Guatemala a successful UPR. I thank you.