PBI Impact: Decades of Support Culminate in Historic 2024 Guatemala Land Rights Accords
In the second story from our latest impact report, we explore the signing of a landmark Agrarian Agreement with the Guatemalan government by Indigenous and campesino groups in 2024—following years of repression, criminalisation and violent displacements from their land. PBI has stood beside these organisations over decades—supporting them to defend their land and achieve this historic agreement.
The accord sets out concrete commitments on access to land, conflict resolution and the rural economy. It also creates a permanent political space for dialogue between the government and social movements—a marked shift from centuries of attrition.
PBI in Guatemala: defending the defenders
PBI has provided protective accompaniment to organisations like the Union of Campesino Organizations of Verapaz (UVOC) and the Altiplano Campesino Committee Verapaces (CCDA) over decades. We have strengthened human rights defenders’ security capacities while preventing abuses through international observation.
Defenders testify that PBI’s strategic presence at key negotiations has dissuaded assassination attempts, while trial observation, prison visits and international mobilisation have helped to combat criminalisation. PBI’s sustained local presence and global networks have helped to create the conditions for defenders to continue campaigning and ultimately sign the groundbreaking agreement.
Protecting homes and the environment
Indigenous and campesino (rural peasant farmer) communities in Guatemala are not only defending their homes and livelihoods but also safeguarding the environment. Their traditional knowledge of sustainable resource management has long protected forests, rivers and ecosystems. Their territories are often at the frontline of land grabs driven by mining and agribusiness expansion, which displace communities and drive deforestation and degradation.
Defenders of land continue to face threats
Although the Agrarian Agreement is a historic achievement, the fight is far from over. Displacements and threats against communities continue, and implementation of the deal will be a major test. PBI continues to stand by these communities and defenders and support them to continue their vital work.
Globally, PBI has ramped up support for environmental defenders—keeping them safe and connected so that they can secure critical wins for the planet. Our support has ensured that communities are not only protected from immediate threats but also equipped with the tools and networks they need to deter attacks and drive lasting change.
For more stories of impact, check out our annual report.
