CNDH rejects claims its Ayotzinapa recommendation criminalizes NGOs

Mexico's National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has pushed back against criticism of its recommendation concerning the Ayotzinapa case. The Consejo Consultivo del Mecanismo Federal de Protección de Personas Defensoras de Derechos Humanos y Periodistas had questioned Recommendation 208VG/2026, suggesting it could stigmatize human rights organizations.

The CNDH asserted that its document "does not criminalize, stigmatize, or disqualify" civil society groups. It denied any intention to shift responsibility for the documented human rights violations away from the Mexican state. The commission explained that the section addressing the involvement of civil organizations includes only "verifiable facts" and contextual analysis to understand the various narratives influencing this high-profile case.

"Analyzing the participation of involved actors in a historical process does not imply attributing responsibility for the proven human rights violations nor transferring the obligations that correspond to the Mexican state," the CNDH stated. This comes after the Consejo Consultivo raised concerns about the CNDH's methodology and the inclusion of information regarding the financing and activities of civil society organizations.

The commission further clarified that it does not propose or promote fiscal persecution against any organization, nor does it intend to use the tax administration service as a pressure tactic. Information included in the recommendation was obtained through transparency requests, aiming to "contextualize and make transparent the participation of the different actors involved" in the events of September 26-27, 2014. The CNDH maintains that reviewing the resources of social organizations, international bodies, and media is part of public scrutiny when they engage in matters of national interest.

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Analyzing the participation of involved actors in a historical process does not imply attributing responsibility for the proven human rights violations nor transferring the obligations that correspond to the Mexican state.