United Nations: the Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples published the report on her visit to Mexico

The Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples, Victoria Tauli-Corpuz, published the report which examines the situation of indigenous peoples in Mexico. The report is based on information received by the Special Rapporteur on the rights of indigenous peoples during her visit to the country from 8 to 17 November 2017 and on independent research.

The Special Rapporteur notes that, since the official visit made in 2003 by the former Special Rapporteur, Rodolfo Stavenhagen, and despite the commitments subsequently made by Mexico in the field of human rights, indigenous peoples continue to face serious challenges in the exercise of their human rights.

Current development policies, which are based on mega-projects (in mining, energy, tourism, real estate and agriculture, among other areas), pose a major challenge to indigenous peoples’ enjoyment of human rights. Lack of self-determination and prior, free, informed and culturally appropriate consultation are compounded by land conflicts, forced displacement, and the criminalization of and violence against indigenous peoples who defend their rights.

All these problems are taking place against a backdrop of profound inequality, poverty and discrimination of indigenous peoples that restricts their access to justice, education, health and other basic services.

The full version of the report is available at the link below.