Guatemala: New Commissioner of the International Commission Against Impunity

Press Statement

Marie Harf
Deputy Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC

September 12, 2013

The U.S. Government welcomes the announcement that former Colombian magistrate and prosecutor Ivan Velasquez has accepted an appointment by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to serve as the next Commissioner of the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG). With Mr. Velasquez’s strong leadership and prosecutorial experience, we are confident that CICIG will continue to build upon its significant progress in supporting Guatemalan judicial institutions and strengthening the rule of law.

CICIG is an independent, investigative body, established through an agreement between the United Nations and the Guatemalan Government. CICIG plays an important role in the fight against corruption and impunity in Guatemala. The U.S. Government has contributed nearly $21 million in support for CICIG since it began operations in January 2008.

The United States is committed to supporting Guatemalan efforts to strengthen the rule of law. We remain a strong partner of CICIG in fighting impunity, helping ensure the administration of justice, and defending human rights.