Workers and trade unionists seeking union recongition and improved working conditions in Guatemala are being subjected to a renewed increase in violence against them, including extrajudicial execution, abduction, rape and beatings, as well as threats to their lives. This persecution appears to be the work of gunmen hired by employers and factory owners and indicates the participation of the security forces. An AI delegation met with trade unionists and workers at maquila plants and collected first-hand testimonies of increasing intimidation and harassment, particularly against women. AI is concerned that until effective government action is taken to ensure that those reponsible for these actions are brought to justice, trade unionists will continue to be a major target of human rights violations.
