News Release
US Department of Labor condemns murder of Guatemalan trade union leader Anastacio Tzib Caal
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor’s Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs Thea Lee released the following statement condemning the June 15 murder of Anastacio Tzib Caal, the recently elected secretary general of the Texpia II workers’ union. Texpia II is a garment production facility in Villa Nueva, Guatemala.
“We lament Anastacio Tzib Caal’s horrific murder and extend our deep condolences to his family, friends and the Texpia II workers’ union. We stand with the Guatemalan labor rights community in calling on the Guatemalan authorities to thoroughly investigate his murder and hold the perpetrators accountable. We hope to see swift justice for Tzib Caal and an end to impunity for violent crimes against trade unionists in Guatemala. The U.S. Government remains firmly committed to supporting workers’ rights in Guatemala through our programs and engagement with Guatemalan authorities, unions, worker organizations and the private sector. In addition to worker rights, the United States supports security efforts more broadly so that everyone can live and work without fear of violence.”
