Background on Betssy Chávez and the Diplomatic Tension
The diplomatic relations between Peru and Mexico have reached a tense point following Mexico’s granting of asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chávez. While Mexico maintains it acted within international law and its tradition of asylum, Peru accuses Mexico of interference and violation of diplomatic norms.
Who is Betssy Chávez?
Betssy Chávez served as Peru’s Prime Minister until her involvement in a failed coup attempt alongside former President Pedro Castillo. Both Chávez and Castillo have been charged for their roles in the incident, which led to Castillo’s removal from office due to moral incapacity under Peru’s constitution.
Why is this relevant?
Former Mexican Ambassador Agustín Gutiérrez Canet argues that Chávez’s asylum is illegitimate under international law and contradicts Mexico’s own foreign policy principles. He asserts that Mexican leaders, including former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and current Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, have interfered in Peru’s internal affairs by commenting on the situation.
Gutiérrez Canet’s Critique of Mexico’s Asylum Decision
According to Gutiérrez Canet, Mexico’s decision violates the Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum, which prohibits granting asylum to individuals under investigation or facing legal proceedings. He emphasizes that asylum should protect those genuinely facing persecution or human rights violations, not provide impunity for corrupt politicians.
- Question: What is the Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum?
- Question: What is Gutiérrez Canet’s stance on the use of asylum?
Answer: The Caracas Convention is an international agreement that outlines the conditions under which asylum can be granted to diplomats and their families. Article III specifically prohibits granting asylum to individuals under investigation or facing legal proceedings.
Answer: Gutiérrez Canet believes that asylum should not be used to protect corrupt politicians but rather to safeguard those genuinely facing persecution or human rights violations.
Mexico’s Asylum Tradition and Current Criticism
Gutiérrez Canet acknowledges Mexico’s legitimate tradition of granting asylum, such as to Spanish Republicans during Lázaro Cárdenas’ presidency. However, he argues that the current cases of Betssy Chávez and former Ecuadorian Vice President Jorge Glas, both facing corruption charges, demonstrate inconsistency and violation of international law.
- Question: How does Gutiérrez Canet view Mexico’s current foreign policy?
Answer: Gutiérrez Canet criticizes Mexico’s foreign policy for its inconsistency and lack of coherence. He points out that Mexico remains silent on human rights violations in countries like Cuba, Venezuela, and Nicaragua while granting asylum to politically aligned allies. He also criticizes the partisan use of asylum and confusion between the roles of the state and ruling party.
Conclusion
Former Ambassador Gutiérrez Canet maintains that Mexico’s current foreign policy, particularly its asylum decisions, lacks a clear vision and adherence to international law. He urges Mexico to reconsider its approach, ensuring that asylum is granted based on genuine need rather than political affiliations.
