The United States has condemned the murder of Anastacio Tzib Caal, the newly elected Secretary General of the Guatemalan Trade Union, in the Texpia II garment factory on June 15, 2024. During this trying time, “We offer our condolences to his family, friends, and the Texpia II workers’ union.” The United States supports all efforts by Guatemalan authorities to hold offenders accountable and ensure workers can exercise their rights safely.

“Workers’ rights are an essential component of a functioning democracy. Labor activists should never be afraid for their lives. The United States will continue to support and argue for free association and workers’ rights to organize worldwide. Attacks on Guatemalan trade unionists jeopardize the economic growth of Guatemala and damage human rights in our global supply chain. The United States remains dedicated to advancing workers’ rights in Guatemala through initiatives and interactions with Guatemalan officials. In addition to worker rights, the United States promotes broader security initiatives that allow everyone to live without fear of violence.”

The Guatemalan Ministry of Labor issued a statement calling for an “exhaustive, transparent, and expeditious investigation” to bring the perpetrators to justice. Tzib Caal was a key advocate for workers’ rights inside textile maquila unions, and his death dealt a huge blow to Guatemala’s labor movement.

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