Additional Context: The Mujeres Achí case in Guatemala is a high-profile human rights trial pursued by a group of 36 ethnic-minority women, six of whom have since died, who suffered high rates of sexual violence at the hands of the Guatemalan government between 1981 and 1983. The American Bar Association, or ABA, has provided legal and psychological support services as part of the Human Rights for All project since early 2024. The project aimed to strengthen the human rights system in the country through outreach, education, litigation, and victim support. According to the organization, their ability to provide direct support to survivors and witnesses was affected by U.S. aid cuts, resulting in the inability to prepare 25 witness statements, seven expert reports, analyzing 56 documents, providing 22 individuals with legal servces, and providing psychological support. According to the ABA, the program's attorney and psychologist continued providing some pro bono support in their individual capacities.

Devex Researcher Note: Despite the funding cuts having impacted support during the trial, three paramilitary officers were ultimately convicted for the rape of six of these women. Survivors urge for further reparations for these human rights violations, which at the time were also linked to the U.S. government.

Source: American Bar Association