American sanctions closed Guatemala’s nickel mines to fight corruption and human rights violations, but the move has left thousands jobless, prompting a surge in migration and widespread economic distress.
Jeff Stein and Claudia Méndez Arriaza report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- U.S. sanctions against nickel mines in Guatemala were intended to punish corruption but have resulted in job losses for over 2,000 workers.
- The economic fallout has led to spikes in unemployment, child malnutrition and migration, with some workers dying while attempting to reach the U.S.
- Local infrastructure projects, including water access for Indigenous communities, have been halted due to the mining company's shutdown.
Key quote:
"It is their fault we are out of work."
— Tereso Cacheo Ruiz, former miner
Why this matters:
How to address longstanding corruption and environmental and human rights violations by the mining industry in Guatemala, and elsewhere in the developing world, is a thorny question. Many Guatemalan activists had long sought to close the mines. But U.S. financial sanctions created unintended consequences, devastating local economies and leading to more abuses. The closure of key industries has intensified poverty and migration, contributing to dangerous journeys and deaths among those seeking a better life.
