UN Subcommittee Concludes Third Visit to Mexico
A delegation from the United Nations Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) concluded its third visit to Mexico from January 25 to 30, 2026. The experts acknowledged the country's political commitment and legislative advancements in combating and preventing torture, but emphasized the need for stronger implementation of prevention measures, particularly within drug rehabilitation centers.
Acknowledged Progress in Legislative Frameworks
During the visit, the SPT recognized several positive steps taken by Mexico since its previous mission a decade ago. These include the adoption of key legislative measures such as the General Law on the Prevention of Torture in 2017 and the General Law on Health in 2023. The Mexican government has also established specialized prosecutors' offices dedicated to investigating acts of torture and has reportedly strengthened its National Preventive Mechanism (NPM) with a robust legal framework and adequate resources.
Urgent Concerns Regarding Drug Rehabilitation Centers
Despite the progress, the SPT delegation, led by Carmen Comas-Mata of Spain, expressed significant concern over the persistent gaps between legal frameworks and their practical implementation. A primary area of concern highlighted by the experts was the situation observed in drug rehabilitation centers, especially those operating privately and without adequate regulatory oversight.
The Subcommittee noted 'worrying conditions and coercive practices' in these centers, which operate 'without sufficient regulation and pose serious risks of ill-treatment.' Comas-Mata stated that 'Addressing this situation requires urgent and decisive action by the State.' The experts also observed that national legislation prohibiting involuntary institutionalization was not consistently applied on the ground.
Ongoing Challenges in Investigations and Impunity
The delegation also voiced concerns regarding 'persistent problems in prompt and effective investigations of acts of torture and the fight against impunity,' despite the existing legal and institutional frameworks. During their mission, the SPT visited various facilities, including:
- Men's and women's prisons
- Police stations
- Psychiatric hospitals
- Drug rehabilitation centers
The SPT will submit a confidential report containing its findings and recommendations to the Government of Mexico and has encouraged the country to make this report public and engage constructively with the Subcommittee on the implementation of its recommendations.
0 Comments