Background on the Issue
The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) has issued a recommendation to the Security Secretariat of Nuevo León (SS) after the latter refused to comply with Recommendation 4/2023 from the State Commission on Human Rights (CEDHNL). This recommendation pertains to human rights abuses committed against women protesters on March 8, 2023, in Monterrey.
Details of the Incident
During a women’s rights march in commemoration of International Women’s Day, numerous women became victims of human rights violations by the state police. Among them were minors, who experienced arbitrary detentions, excessive use of force, verbal and physical violence, and cruel treatment, all while peacefully protesting.
The detained women were transported under irregular conditions and subjected to acts that violated their dignity, directly infringing upon their rights to security, freedom of expression, and social protest.
CEDHNL’s Non-compliance
The CEDHNL confirmed that the Security Secretariat of Nuevo León failed to implement the measures outlined in Recommendation 4/2023. This failure prompted the CNDH to issue a new statement, demanding adherence to national and international human rights standards.
The state security department refused compliance, arguing that their protocols of action were “legal and proportional.” In response to this refusal, the CNDH revisited the case and concluded that the state security department’s stance constitutes further victimization and disregard for national and international human rights standards.
CNDH’s Recommendations
In its resolution, the CNDH demanded that the state government:
- Issue a public apology to the affected women;
- Ensure medical, psychological, and legal assistance to the victims;
- Sanction the commanders and Fuerza Civil officers responsible for acts of violence;
The CNDH also emphasized that the responsibility lies directly with the state security secretariat and the Fuerza Civil command chain, as its elements displayed a pattern of repression towards the protesters.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main issue? The CNDH recommends sanctioning Nuevo León police officers for acts of violence against women protesters during an International Women’s Day march in March 2023.
- Why is this relevant? This case highlights the violation of women’s rights to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and security. It also demonstrates the failure of state authorities to uphold human rights standards.
- What actions did the CNDH take? The CNDH issued a recommendation to the SS after the CEDHNL’s non-compliance with its own recommendation. The CNDH then demanded adherence to national and international human rights standards, including sanctions against responsible officers.
- What are the key demands from the CNDH? The CNDH called for a public apology, medical and legal assistance to victims, and sanctions against responsible officers.
