IRTF News

UN experts, led by Marco Feoli Villalobos of the UN Subcommittee for the Prevention of Torture (SPT), urged Guatemala to safeguard the human rights of detainees after their second visit to the country. Despite challenges in transportation and communication, the delegation inspected over 20 detention facilities, including prisons, migrant shelters, and children's homes. They found alarming conditions that could amount to torture and called on Guatemala to modernize its criminal justice system with input from all branches of government. The SPT will share its findings and recommendations in a confidential report with Guatemala, encouraging the state to make it public. The delegation also engaged with civil society and international organizations during their visit.

In Guatemala, widespread protests have erupted against corruption and impunity within the government. Demonstrators demand the resignation of corrupt officials, including Attorney General Consuelo Porras, and express frustration over a history of oppressive systems. Indigenous leaders and various sectors of society have joined an indefinite national strike since October 2nd, seeking dialogue with the government. Despite attempts at peaceful resolution, the government responded with repression, deploying police and military forces. President Giammattei's lack of political will to address corruption led to continued protests. Paramilitary groups and drug traffickers threatened protesters, intensifying the situation. President-elect Bernardo Arévalo sought support from the U.S., but the long-term interests of both countries differ. The unity of the Guatemalan people, including those in the diaspora, remained strong. Peaceful protests at the Public Ministry persisted despite government attempts to disperse them. The demonstrations, spanning various sectors and communities, echoed the historic resistance of Indigenous Peoples, marking a collective demand for democracy, the right to protest, and an end to corruption and impunity in Guatemala.

Alejandro Encinas, Mexico's top human rights official leading the investigation into the 2014 disappearance of 43 students, resigned amid one of the nation's worst human rights atrocities. Encinas, a critic of the Mexican armed forces, accused the military of involvement in the students' disappearance. However, doubts arose about the evidence, leading to scrutiny. Encinas was also targeted by the Pegasus spyware while investigating the military, undermining President López Obrador's anti-surveillance promises. Encinas resigned to support Claudia Sheinbaum's presidential campaign. The case, emblematic of a dysfunctional system, remains unsolved, with no convictions. The departure leaves ongoing concerns about the investigation's integrity and the military's transparency.

Thanks to everyone who showed their support for a just, alternative economy by attending the Ohio Fair Trade Teach-In and Expo 2023 at John Carroll on October 7. We were really pleased by the large turn-out and the sales generated to provide vital income to fair trade artisans and farmers in the Global South. Special thanks to all our co-sponsors and volunteers (especially John Carroll students) who made this event possible. A big shout-out to the students from five schools (members of Catholic Schools for Peace and Justice) who modeled in our Fair Trade Fashion Show!

Here is a list of 10 ways you can celebrate Fair Trade Month: meet farmers via online educational forums,  learn about fair trade marketing and merchandising, get discounts on ethically-sourced Halloween chocolate, support Ohio fair trade nonprofits like One World Shop, and more.  

In Guatemala, ongoing protests demanding an orderly transition for President-elect Bernardo Arevalo took a violent turn. One person died and four were injured in clashes on Monday. Arevalo, a reform-oriented leader, won a significant victory in August. However, the independent attorney general's intensified investigations into the election and Arevalo's party raised concerns. Protesters, numbering in the tens of thousands, demanded the resignation of Attorney General Consuelo Porras and other judicial officials accused of politically-motivated inquiries. Armed groups attacked protesters, leading to injuries and fatalities. President-elect Arevalo expressed support for the peaceful demonstrators and called for authorities to ensure their safety.

Indigenous-led protests in Guatemala City continue for the third week, demanding the resignation of the attorney general and judicial officials accused of undermining democracy. Indigenous authorities have initiated blockades nationwide, fearing efforts to prevent President-elect Bernardo Arévalo from taking office. Despite facing threats and attacks, the demonstrations are marked by resilience and solidarity, featuring music, art, and community support. Protesters vow to stay until officials resign, emphasizing the importance of democracy in their struggle against government corruption and oppression.