The Association of Mayan Lawyers and Notaries of Guatemala has provided all-around legal representation for the victims of the Maya Kaqchikel Indigenous Peoples of Sumpango and Others vs. Guatemala case. The case, which was initially filed in 2012, resulted in a ruling that the country was responsible for violating Indigenous Peoples’ rights to freedom of expression, equality before the law, and respect for cultural life. The Association’s representation includes advice, legal accompaniment, and ensuring the effective compliance of the judgment handed down by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR).
The Association’s determination and dedication to the victims led to several successes, including economic compensation for three of the four victims who were subject to illegal raids and imprisonment, the granting of legal status to the community radio station “La X Musical, la voz de Cajola” (which opens the door for the station to manage and administer resources, as well as to receive the financial compensation required by IACHR’s ruling), and amendments to the community media law to make sure it aligns with the ruling.