The Council extends sanctions against those who undermine democracy in Guatemala until 2027

The EU renews restrictive measures against eight individuals and one entity for obstructing the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power.

Brussels, January 9, 2026 – The Council of the European Union today decided to extend restrictive measures against those responsible for undermining democracy in Guatemala for another year, until January 13, 2027. The sanctions target specific political and judicial actors accused of attempting to overturn election results and destabilize the country's democratic institutions.

In short

The restrictive measures, which apply to eight individuals and one entity, have been extended until January 2027.

Those included on the list face travel bans in the EU and asset freezes, and EU citizens and companies are prohibited from providing them with funds.

The EU has announced an ad-hoc mission for 2026 that will observe critical selection processes for the Supreme Electoral Court, the Constitutional Court, and the Attorney General's Office.

The sanctions are designed to target only those who have participated in actions that undermine democracy, the rule of law, or the peaceful transfer of power in Guatemala. The Council emphasized that these measures are strictly targeted and do not affect the Guatemalan population or the country's economy. The framework for these sanctions was initially adopted in January 2024 to support the democratic transition following the general elections of 2023.

Looking to the future, the EU has reaffirmed its commitment to the country's development. Beyond sanctions, the Union will conduct an ad-hoc mission in 2026 to support the selection and appointment processes for three key institutions: the Supreme Electoral Court, the Constitutional Court, and the Attorney General's Office. These bodies play a vital role in upholding the rule of law, and the EU's involvement signals ongoing vigilance regarding Guatemala's institutional integrity.

https://2eu.brussels/ro/stiri/consiliul-prelungeste-sanctiunile-impotriva-celor-care-submineaza-democratia-in-guatemala-pana-in-2027