Location: Chimaltenango and Sacatepéquez regions

Situation:

In the context of economic globalisation and trade liberalisation, Guatemala opened its doors to many 'maquilas' (textile factories). Investors benefit from tax exemptions and other privileges. Women employed in these factories are deprived of access to healthcare and work in conditions which violate labour standards. 

Activities:

DOW provides direct medical care to these women who would otherwise be denied access to healthcare. This outreach work allows us to collect quantitative and qualitative information on workers' health and to raise awareness among factory managers of the importance of their workers' health. DOW UK also runs health promotion sessions (recognised by the Guatemalan Ministry of Health) for groups of workers. This training also aims to raise women's awareness of the importance of their health and to enable them to realise their rights as set out in legislation.

Outlook:

We are working with local and national organisations and institutions to encourage the national authorities to deal with this issue. DOW is encouraging organisations to work together to put forward
realistic and viable solutions to the health problems of women working in maquilas. In this region which is badly affected by violence against women, we are also trying to raise awareness, amongst both men and women, of violence as an issue.