Let’s Talk About Human Rights (or Lack Thereof): CNDH and Rosario Piedra Ibarra
So, ladies and gentlemen, it appears that Rosario Piedra Ibarra is aiming—a little too confidently, might I add—for a second act as the head of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH). Now, if you’re hearing alarm bells ringing, you’re not alone! Former members of the Advisory Council and numerous NGOs are banging their heads against the wall, wondering if the Senate is about to make a very questionable decision—again. I mean, it’s reminiscent of those ridiculous reality shows where you’re screaming, “Don’t give them a rose!” But here we are, folks; might just be the season finale.
Luis de la Barreda Solórzano, a name so long I’m surprised he doesn’t need a second mortgage just to sign documents, makes an interesting point. He argues that Rosario was put in her role on a technicality, which makes you wonder if they even read the fine print—like a blind date that didn’t go as planned. His words almost sing a lament: “The ombudsperson has honored her last name,” he says, but “she’s been omissive and submissive.” Well, that’s the kind of endorsement that’ll make you want to run for an office—if only to stay far, far away from it!
Let’s be frank, shall we? It’s quite shameless that Piedra Ibarra is eyeing re-election, especially after reportedly offering more “unconditional support” to the government than actual human rights advocacy. It’s like being given the role of referee in a game of dodgeball, only for you to join in and start throwing balls yourself. A sad state of affairs, indeed, aligning perfectly with a broader trend: the systematic weakening of democracy in our beloved country. How’s that for a plot twist?
Of course, it would be remiss of me not to mention the plea from the Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez Human Rights Center. Their demand for a transparent and participatory appointment process echoes louder than a bad karaoke version of “Don’t Stop Believin’.” They insist that the next person running CNDH needs to meet international standards. It’s like asking for a Michelin-starred dish in a fast-food joint—the ask may be lofty, but let’s keep the dream alive, right?
And then there’s Eduardo Guerrero, a lawyer with the Prodh Center, who goes on to predict that if Rosario is re-elected, we might as well start putting the “fun” in “dysfunctional institution.” I mean, five years in, and we’re left with an organization that seems less equipped to handle key human rights issues than a deer caught in headlights—confused and a bit scared. Talk about a demotion in respect and capability!
Now, here’s the kicker. If the Senate decides to keep Rosario around or replaces her with another “hegemony enthusiast,” we’re essentially getting a flavor of the Third Act of our ongoing tragedy—the Fourth Transformation. What’s next in the play? A complete disregard for human rights, perhaps, all while we sit back and munch on popcorn, wondering if someone will grab the remote to change the channel on this reality show gone wrong.
Ex-member Adalberto Méndez López reluctantly concedes that Rosario has the right to seek re-election. However, as he cleverly notes, getting a second date is normally reserved for those who’ve done a good job on the first. Spoiler alert: This wasn’t that date! The consensus seems to be that Rosario’s leadership has left much to be desired. Management can’t just be a “troupe for the ruling party” if we want any semblance of human rights in this drama.
So, Where Do We Go from Here?
In conclusion, folks, the clock is ticking. Will the Senate step up and stay true to the ideals of human rights, or are we headed for another rerun of the worst kind of bureaucratic theatre? Only time will tell if we’ll find a true champion for human rights or if we’re just stuck with the same old cast performing a mediocre rendition. Grab your popcorn and brace yourselves, and perhaps let’s all hold our collective breath—because it looks like we’re in for another turbulent ride!
A few weeks before the conclusion of Rosario Piedra Ibarra’s term as head of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), several former members of the internal Advisory Council, alongside various NGOs and human rights specialists, are raising alarms. They caution that the Senate could either extend support for the ombudsperson to undertake a second term or appoint another individual closely associated with the ruling party, thereby perpetuating a cycle of governance lacking true independence.
“Given the behavior exhibited by most senators, many of whom initially supported Rosario Piedra despite not meeting the constitutional voting requirements, it appears likely that despite her perceived shortcomings as ombudsperson, they may opt to re-elect her,” warns Luis de la Barreda Solórzano, the former head of the Human Rights Commission of the then Federal District.
“It is truly outrageous that Piedra Ibarra is considering re-election. Her tenure has effectively jeopardized the CNDH and positioned her as a staunch ally of the federal government. The state of the CNDH reflects a broader trend of democratic erosion, power consolidation within the presidency, and the dismantling of autonomous organizations,” he adds, emphasizing the grave implications for human rights in the country.
The Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez Human Rights Center has reiterated the necessity for the upcoming appointment process for the CNDH leadership to be conducted in an equitable, transparent, and participatory manner. This process should align with the international standards set forth in the Paris Principles and ensure that the principles of qualifications, independence, and autonomy are firmly upheld.
“The issue of autonomy is pivotal, and it’s crucial to evaluate the proposed work plan as part of the application. It must address key human rights concerns, including militarization and abuses by armed forces, the crisis surrounding forced disappearances, torture incidents, and the rights of individuals facing mobility issues,” states Eduardo Guerrero, a lawyer at the Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez Human Rights Center.
He asserts that five years post the appointment of Rosario Piedra Ibarra as the head of the CNDH, the organization will emerge significantly weakened, illustrating its failure to adequately address critical issues such as militarization and the ongoing judiciary reforms that threaten human rights advocacy.
“A couple of years back, Rosario Piedra proposed transforming the CNDH into an Ombudsman’s Office, but this proposal glosses over the fundamental challenges that need reinforcement within the commission. Instead of anticipating a potential strengthening of the organization, the likely scenario appears to favor a continuity that will detrimentally affect the CNDH’s integrity,” Guerrero contends.
He argues that if the Senate chooses to re-elect Piedra Ibarra or another individual aligned with the dominant party, it would reveal a stark disregard from the ‘Fourth Transformation’ government towards the safeguarding of human rights.
“Given the context of her arrival in 2019, amid controversial votes from Morena, and considering the current Senate dynamics, this possibility looms large. Such a decision would communicate a lack of real commitment to ensuring that the CNDH remains an autonomous and independent body, capable of fulfilling its role amidst a climate where other autonomous organizations are increasingly undermined,” emphasizes the attorney.
Adalberto Méndez López, a former Advisory Council member of the National Human Rights Commission, maintains that while Rosario Piedra Ibarra possesses the right to seek re-election, this ambition should be grounded in her performance in office. “Individuals typically pursue re-election based on commendable service, and this simply has not been substantiated in her case,” he remarks, highlighting the broader impact of her tenure on the institution’s credibility.
“Her administration cannot be celebrated. On the contrary, it has been marked by a close affiliation with the ruling party, raising questions about the technical capacity and integrity of the CNDH under her leadership compared to prior years. While it is indeed her right to seek another term, the emphasis should be on self-criticism,” he adds, urging a critical reassessment of her qualifications for continued leadership.
Interview with Luis de la Barreda Solórzano on the Future of CNDH and Rosario Piedra Ibarra’s Re-election Bid
Interviewer: Joining us today is Luis de la Barreda Solórzano, the former head of the Human Rights Commission of the then Federal District. Luis, thank you for being here. Let’s dive right in. What’s your take on Rosario Piedra Ibarra’s bid for re-election as head of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH)?
Luis de la Barreda: Thank you for having me. Well, it’s hard not to have concerns. Rosario’s leadership has been largely characterized by what I would call submissiveness to the current administration. It feels as though she’s taken on the role of a state ally rather than a true human rights advocate. So, the notion of her returning for a second term raises serious alarm bells for me and many others in the human rights community.
Interviewer: You mentioned concerns about her alignment with the government. Can you elaborate on how this relationship impacts the CNDH?
Luis de la Barreda: Certainly. The CNDH is supposed to function as an independent body advocating for citizens’ rights. However, under Rosario’s leadership, there’s an apparent compromise on these principles. The office has morphed into a platform for governmental support rather than a watchdog. This signals a troubling trend of democratic erosion and undermines the very human rights protections that the CNDH was designed to uphold.
Interviewer: There are calls for a transparent and equitable appointing process for the next CNDH leader. How crucial is this?
Luis de la Barreda: It’s absolutely vital. An inclusive process can help restore credibility to the CNDH. The Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez Human Rights Center has highlighted the importance of adhering to international standards during this process. If we don’t clean house and establish an autonomous leadership that prioritizes human rights, we risk perpetuating the cycle of dysfunction that has plagued the commission.
Interviewer: You’re suggesting that the Senate may likely opt for Rosario due to their previous support of her regardless of qualifications. What factors play into this?
Luis de la Barreda: Yes, that’s my worry. Many senators initially backed her even when she didn’t meet constitutional voting requirements—their motivations can be dubious. Given this track record, it’s logical to assume that political loyalties may outweigh the imperative for qualified, independent leadership as they revisit this decision.
Interviewer: if Rosario is re-elected, what do you foresee for the CNDH’s future?
Luis de la Barreda: If that happens, we could very well see a continuation of this dysfunctional trajectory. We need a CNDH that is strong, capable, and willing to confront pressing issues like militarization and the crisis of forced disappearances. Without this, the commission runs the risk of becoming a mere facilitator for state policies rather than an advocate for the rights it was meant to protect.
Interviewer: It sounds like the coming weeks will be critical for the future of human rights advocacy in Mexico. Thank you for your insights, Luis.
Luis de la Barreda: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a positive turn in this narrative.
Interview with Luis de la Barreda Solórzano on the Future of CNDH and Rosario Piedra Ibarra’s Re-election Bid
Interviewer: Joining us today is Luis de la Barreda Solórzano, the former head of the Human Rights Commission of the then Federal District. Thank you for being here, Luis. Let’s dive right in. What’s your take on Rosario Piedra Ibarra’s bid for re-election as head of the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH)?
Luis de la Barreda: Thank you for having me. Well, it’s hard not to have concerns. Rosario’s leadership has been largely characterized by what I would call submissiveness to the current administration. It feels as though she’s taken on the role of a state ally rather than a true human rights advocate. So, the notion of her returning for a second term raises serious alarm bells for me and many others in the human rights community.
Interviewer: You mentioned concerns about her alignment with the government. Can you elaborate on how this relationship impacts the CNDH?
Luis de la Barreda: Certainly. The CNDH is supposed to function as an independent body advocating for citizens’ rights. However, under Rosario’s leadership, there’s an apparent compromise on these principles. The office has morphed into a platform for governmental support rather than a watchdog. This signals a troubling trend of democratic erosion and undermines the very human rights protections that the CNDH was designed to uphold.
Interviewer: There are calls for a transparent and equitable appointing process for the next CNDH leader. How crucial is this?
Luis de la Barreda: It’s absolutely vital. An inclusive process can help restore credibility to the CNDH. The Miguel Agustín Pro Juárez Human Rights Center has highlighted the importance of ensuring that the next CNDH leader meets international standards and truly represents the interests of the people rather than those of the government. A transparent selection process would signal a commitment to uphold human rights and restore public trust.
Interviewer: With many voices calling for a change in leadership, do you think the Senate has the political will to make a real decision in favor of human rights?
Luis de la Barreda: Unfortunately, given the current dynamics, I have my doubts. The Senate has often aligned with the ruling party, and many senators who previously supported Rosario may choose to overlook her shortcomings. If they opt for continuity rather than change, we could see the perpetuation of governance that severely lacks true independence.
Interviewer: What would you hope to see moving forward from the CNDH, regardless of who takes the helm?
Luis de la Barreda: Ideally, the CNDH must reclaim its role as an independent watchdog truly advocating for human rights. We need leadership that recognizes the gravity of issues like militarization, forced disappearances, and police abuses. Furthermore, it’s essential to engage civil society and human rights defenders to ensure that the CNDH is reflective of the needs and voices of all Mexicans.
Interviewer: Thank you, Luis, for sharing such insightful perspectives. The future of the CNDH remains uncertain, but your emphasis on transparency and independence is crucial for ensuring that human rights remain at the forefront of Mexican governance.
Luis de la Barreda: Thank you for having me. It’s critical that we all continue to advocate for these values as we progress into an uncertain future.
