"Journalism in Guatemala is increasingly criminalized and lacks protection, and local reporters covering environmental issues face the greatest risks. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calls on President Bernardo Arévalo to ensure safe working conditions for these reporters — especially those from indigenous communities. Together with partner organizations, RSF has put forward recommendations to the Guatemalan State, the international community, and civil society.
In Guatemala, local journalists are at the forefront of environmental reporting, yet covering extractive projects, evictions of indigenous communities and other crimes against the planet often puts them at high risk. Without protection or resources, these journalists remain vulnerable to criminal groups, state violence and legal harassment. A report by RSF and seven partner organizations, published following an observation mission to Guatemala, revealed that local journalists — especially indigenous women — face daily threats, intimidation and systemic discrimination by local power structures."
