In 2022, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) launched the Democracy Delivers Initiative with a simple premise: when a country experiences a promising democratic opening, governments that undertake meaningful reform and deliver on citizen priorities are more likely to experience enduring democratic gains. And when these openings arise, the international community can play a critical role in helping reform-minded governments, civil society, and citizens seize the moment. The following year, USAID, along with philanthropic and private sector partners, launched the Democracy Delivers Commitment to Action, reflecting a common pursuit of increasing investment across sectors in countries experiencing a democratic opening.
In 2023, millions of Guatemalan citizens stood up for historic change by electing an anti-corruption reformer with a vision for a more democratic and prosperous Guatemala. When anti-democratic forces tried to overturn the election results, citizens protested those forces for days to make their voices heard and their votes counted. Democratic norms prevailed, and Guatemala inaugurated a new president committed to building transparent, effective public institutions centered on human dignity.
Guatemala serves as an inspiring example, a democratic bright spot for Latin America and the world. In September 2024, Guatemala joined the Democracy Delivers Initiative, and USAID announced the following commitments from the U.S. Government and our partners to support the Guatemalan people in realizing their goals and aspirations.
