Ambassador Young-Hee
Embajada de Korea del Sur
Avenida Reforma 1-50, zona 9
Guatemala, C.A.

15 May 2008

Dear Ambassador Young-Hee:

I am writing to express my concern about widespread sex discrimination in Guatemala's export-processing industry. A report by Human Rights Watch reveals widespread abuse of women's human rights in the maquila industry through sex discrimination.

I call upon the government of the Republic of Korea to oppose abuses by Korean individuals and companies abroad. Specifically, I urge the embassy of South Korea in Guatemala to use its leadership position with Korean-owned factories to press them to adopt fair labor standards, including prohibitions against all forms of sex discrimination in their operations in Guatemala and elsewhere. The embassy of South Korea can play a critical role in promoting corporate responsibility, as well as providing assistance and advice on how to implement and monitor equal treatment policies for all employees. It is important that the government of South Korea send a clear signal condemning pregnancy-based sex discrimination and other discriminatory labor practices perpetuated by Korean-owned factories in Guatemala and in other countries.

Thank you in advance for your consideration. I look forward to receiving your reply.

Sincerely,