Concluding an official visit to Mexico, the High Commissioner highlighted that women human rights defenders and journalists face increasing risks, particularly when confronting organized crime, corruption, or gender-based violence. He stated that violence continues to be a significant concern, fueled by drug trafficking and arms flows, which heavily impact public security and the exercise of human rights. The High Commissioner called for strengthening civil institutions and accountability mechanisms.
“Ending impunity, ensuring justice for crimes committed, and effective accountability processes are essential,” the High Commissioner stated, adding that impunity was consistently raised as a demand during his meetings with victims and civil society groups. He described disappearances as remaining “one of the most serious and painful human rights challenges” in the country. The High Commissioner commended the courage of families and collectives, mostly led by women, searching for their loved ones, noting these searches often carry great personal risks. He urged for stronger search mechanisms, forensic identification, protection measures, and investigative efforts, while also acknowledging Mexico’s legal framework and the recent adoption of an updated national search protocol. The UN human rights chief expressed concern over the high rates of gender-based violence and femicides, stating that the number of women murdered in the country “shocks our conscience.”
Praise for Mexico’s ‘Vibrant Civil Society’
During his visit, the High Commissioner met with high-level officials from all branches of government, including President Claudia Sheinbaum, cabinet members, legislators, and the President of the Supreme Court, as well as representatives from civil society, the private sector, and victim groups. He said the visit allowed him to witness both “significant achievements and profound challenges” in human rights. “Mexico has a diverse, active, and vibrant civil society,” the High Commissioner remarked, emphasizing its central role in public debate, institutional reform, and demands for accountability. He described Mexico’s Mechanism for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders and Journalists (a Federal Government program established in 2012) as a model for the region, but stressed the critical importance of timely access, prevention measures, and stronger investigative capacity to enhance its effectiveness. Addressing Mexico’s judicial reform, the High Commissioner underscored the importance of preserving judicial independence, integrity, and professional competence during the transition and welcomed efforts to improve justice and transparency. He also welcomed constitutional reforms recognizing Indigenous and Afro-Mexican peoples as subjects of public law, progress in gender equality, poverty reduction, and social protection, and praised Mexico’s role as a committed regional and global actor within the United Nations and the international human rights system.
