WOLA: Advocacy for Human Rights in the Americas
1 Nov 2023 | Joint Statement

Launch of Collective #LaJusticiaQueQueremos (#TheJusticeWeWant)

In Mexico, justice often has two faces: one for those with influence or money, and another for those without. To ensure that justice has a consistent face for all, it must be equitable and reliable. That is why #LaJusticiaQueQuermos was born.

We are a group of 27 organizations (national and international), collectives and individuals who have been working for years to ensure that justice remains impartial and independent, and that impunity ceases to be the norm in Mexico. Our goal is to eventually have a justice system that is not two-faced

To achieve this, it is crucial that the prosecutor’s offices are autonomous and justice remains independent. When the heads of prosecutors’ offices and judicial branches are subject to pressure to resign1 and political capture, when the Legislative Branch threatens to reduce the budget of the Federal Judiciary, or when the accusations and attacks against these institutions become increasingly common, we need to join forces to achieve #TheJusticeWeWant.

What are we going to do? Among other activities:

  • We will monitor attacks on judicial independence, which includes documenting intimidations, threats and unjustified criticisms against judges, magistrates and/or ministers.
  • We will assess and evaluate the performance of the National Prosecutor’s Office (FGR for its Spanish Initials), as well as state-level prosecutors’ offices, to diagnose issues and propose how these institutions can become more effective in addressing the needs of victims and the crimes that harm our society the most, including those that perpetuate systems of violence in the country. 
  • We will advocate for a set of standards for appointments within the justice system, including prosecutors and the judiciary, to ensure that the selection processes for key roles are conducted transparently and the most qualified individuals become a part of the justice system.

Why are we doing it? Because like you, we also want a country where:

  • Justice is equal and protects the rights of all people.
  • The judicial system is transparent and guarantees compliance with the law without distinctions.
  • The law and the human rights of all are respected.
  • Victims are heard and obtain justice and reparations.
  • All individuals who wish to participate in the appointment processes of the justice system have equal opportunities and best-qualified candidates are selected.
  • There is a checks-and-balances system between the executive, legislative and judicial branches.
  • Our justice institutions are accessible and responsive to the needs of all.
  • All levels of public servants responsible for commiting crimes or acts of corruption are investigated.
  • Justice is the path to ending impunity and violence in Mexico, leading to a peaceful country.

Let’s work together for #TheJusticeWeWant #LaJusticiaQueQueremos

Download the letter.