GUATEMALA News (4/26/2024) – The Special Prosecutor’s Office against Impunity (FECI) of Guatemala, in collaboration with the National Civil Police of Guatemala, executed a thorough operation on April 25, 2024. The operation targeted the headquarters of the Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) known as “Save the Children”. This action is part of an ongoing transnational investigation, focusing on potential infractions related to violations and abuses against Guatemalan children.
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Save the Children, established in the UK in 1919, is an internationally recognized NGO dedicated to enhancing the well-being of children globally. Their mission encompasses various endeavors, including advocating for better educational opportunities, improved healthcare, and enhanced economic prospects for children worldwide. The organization holds general consultative status within the United Nations Economic and Social Council.
Despite its noble objectives, Save the Children has faced controversies in the past. One notable instance occurred in July 2011 when it was revealed by the Guardian that the CIA had employed a fake vaccination program, allegedly involving a Save the Children employee, Dr. Shakil Afridi. The aftermath of this revelation significantly disrupted the organization’s operations in Pakistan.
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Further scrutiny arose when Pakistani investigators reported Afridi’s alleged connections with foreign secret agents, citing his claimed association with Save the Children. This claim, denied by the organization, contributed to heightened tensions, leading to the expulsion of Save the Children workers from Pakistan in June 2015.
The NGO encountered additional challenges when Brendan Cox, Chief Strategist of Save the Children UK, resigned in September 2015 amid allegations of inappropriate behavior. These events prompted introspection within the organization, culminating in the Charity Commission’s investigation report in March 2020. The report highlighted systemic weaknesses in Save the Children’s workplace culture, citing complaints of misconduct and harassment against staff. Subsequent reforms, including strengthened reporting and whistleblowing policies, were implemented to address these concerns.
Justin Forsyth, former CEO of Save the Children UK, faced allegations of misconduct, prompting his resignation from UNICEF in February 2018.
In 2017, Dr. Jill Biden assumed the role of board chair at Save the Children, although her current involvement with the organization appears limited.
No further information has been released by the Guatemalan authorities at this time.
Story by multiple RFHC contributors.
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