The U.S. Department of Labor's Deputy Undersecretary for International Affairs, Thea Lee, issued a statement condemning the murder of Anastacio Tzib Caal, who was recently elected as the secretary general of the Texpia II workers' union. The incident occurred on June 15 at the 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," said Lee. "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."
Lee emphasized that the U.S. Government is committed to supporting workers' rights in Guatemala through various programs and engagements with local 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," she added.
