Brussels, 16 December 2024
The EU Council today renewed for one year, until 13 January 2026, the targeted restrictive measures imposed by the EU against those responsible for actions undermining democracy, the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power in Guatemala.
Currently, these EU restrictive measures apply to five persons that are subject to travel restrictions preventing them from entering or transiting through EU member states, and an asset freeze. In addition, EU citizens and companies are forbidden from making funds available to them. More targeted restrictive measures could be considered to the extent that Guatemalan democracy remains under threat.
The EU has repeatedly voiced its concern over the ongoing misuse and instrumentalisation of the justice system in Guatemala, particularly the ongoing efforts to overturn the 2023 election results and continued attacks against the democratically elected government.
The EU remains vigilant against any actions that threaten democratic governance or further erode the rule of law, and stands ready to work closely together with the government of President Bernardo Arévalo on key issues of mutual interest, such as strengthening the rule of law, enhancing sustainable and inclusive economic development, and promoting social justice for the benefit of the Guatemalan population.
Background
To support the democratic transition and respect the will of Guatemalan people for the democratically elected government, the EU established a restrictive measures regime in respect of Guatemala on 12 January 2024, to hold accountable those undermining democracy, the rule of law or obstructing a democratic transition following the 2023 general elections, which resulted in a clear victory of President Bernardo Arévalo, as attested by the EU Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Guatemala.
- Guatemala: Council sanctions five individuals for undermining democracy and the rule of law (press release, 2 February 2024)
- Guatemala: Council establishes dedicated framework of restrictive measures in support of democracy(press release, 12 January 2024)
Source – EU Council: Visit the meeting page