The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) expresses its rejection of a decision by a Guatemalan court that excludes social science professionals from voting in the election for principal and alternate magistrates of the Constitutional Court. This decision violates their rights as members of the Assembly of the Guatemalan Bar and Notaries Association (Colegio de Abogados y Notarios de Guatemala, CANG).
This decision, issued by the Sixth Chamber of the Court of Appeals for Administrative Disputes, violates the right to academic freedom, freedom of expression, and the constitutional right of social sciences professionals –such as those in sociology, political science, international relations, and criminology– to participate in professional association elections. Those affected, represented by the Association's Board of Directors, filed legal challenges before the Constitutional Court (Corte de Constitucionalidad, CC), which has ruled in favor of the Sixth Chamber's decision.
About LASA
The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.
If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.