PBI in Mexico

Mexico is often seen as a pleasant tourist destination – sun, sombreros and tequila!  However, a step back from the tourist attractions - life in Mexico is not so sunny.  Amnesty International is particularly concerned about widespread discrimination against women, and the UN have appointed a Special Rapporteur to investigate the human rights situation of indigenous people. However, according to Human Rights Watch, as well as these already prevalent issues, the most serious human rights problems in Mexico are those affecting its criminal justice system.  For those under arrest or in prison, torture and other ill-treatment are routine and complaints are rarely investigated.

Despite the promises of previous presidents, proposed justice reforms and the establishment of a special prosecutor’s office to investigate past abuses, Mexican NGOs are not satisfied that anything has really improved.  Consequently Mexico’s presidency of the newly created UN Human Rights Council has been criticised by many NGOs in Mexico itself.  It remains to be seen whether the current president, Felipe Calderón, is able to take on these issues and make more substantive progress in human rights.

The Mexico project now has 6 volunteers based in Guerrero state who provide protection to 5 local human rights organisations, including one based in Mexico City.  They also make periodic visits to Mexico City to meet national authorities, diplomats, UN representatives and local NGOs.