Mexico

Electronics worker Ramona was sacked for giving an interview to CAFOD. [Marcella Haddad]

Corruption, poor human rights and unfair trade are rife and, despite promises of social justice and reform, many have become disappointed at the slow pace of change

In 2001 after more than 70 years in power, the Institutional Revolutionary Party lost the Presidency. There were high expectations of the new President, with his agenda of social justice and reform.

Indigenous communities in the south are pressing for better health and education services and to protect communal lands from being taken over by transnational corporations.

The land is rich in natural resources and the law allows it to be sold.

In 1994 there was an indigenous uprising by the Zapatistas in Chiapas state. Despite huge efforts to achieve a peaceful settlement, the conflict continues and there is still a strong military and paramilitary presence in the region. Many thousands of people live in refugee communities.

Key challenges

Corruption: In spite of the prospect of greater reform at the level of federal (national) government, at local level corruption is entrenched and judges are often bought off by wealthier parties. Many police and prison officers operate amidst a culture of brutality and there is little accountability.

Poor human rights: Indigenous communities in the south continue to suffer the impact of ongoing military and paramilitary violence. Human rights lawyers, as well as church and social activists, are subject to intimidation and death threats.

Unfair trade: The government has focused on free trade as a means to increase economic growth. The commitment to fast-track free trade has led to deteriorating labour conditions in the cities, weaker domestic industry as small and medium-sized businesses have gone bust, and an overall increase in poverty for most people.

section highlights

Legal defence for poor communities

Consuelo Morales Elizondo, director of a human rights centre run by CAFOD partner CADHAC, explains how it defends the rights of prisoners and supports Mexico’s “forgotten” people

Supporting farmers in Mexico

Fomento Cultural y Educativo (Cultural and Educational Promotion) is a Jesuit organisation working with indigenous communities, providing training on human rights, health and agriculture

Challenging free trade rules

The Mexican Action Network on Free Trade (RMALC) is helping open people's eyes to the way free trade policies are forcing the majority of the population into ever-increasing poverty

latest updates elsewhere on www.cafod.org.uk

Play "The Computer Game" A simulation game based around conditions endured by factory workers in Mexico. Participants encounter injustice in a recruitment agency, a computer factory and a shop and are encouraged to reflect on their experiences

Report highlights workers' "abuse" A new CAFOD report claims electronics workers in Mexico are still being regularly subjected to labour rights abuses

Q&A on workers rights report The background to CEREAL's new report which claims continuing abuse of electronics workers in Mexico

take action

New climate action - email your MP today MPs are examining the Climate Change Bill now before Parliament finally votes on it. Please take the new action to call for a stronger Bill

Direct Debit Could you live on 99% of your income? What could the other 1% do for people living in extreme poverty? Give regularly. Transform lives.

Help in the fight to save Brazilian heritage Please sign a petition asking the Brazilian government and its Supreme Court to uphold the constitution, which promises land rights for the indigenous people of the Amazon. We need at least another 800 signatures before July 28 so, even if you have already taken it, please email your friends about it too!