CNDH Addresses Criticism Over Military Human Rights Violations in 2025

Web Editor

January 27, 2026

a group of people standing in front of a microphone in a room with a wooden wall and a stage, David

Background on Rosario Piedra Ibarra and the CNDH

Rosario Piedra Ibarra, the president of Mexico’s National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), defended her organization against accusations of ineffectiveness in addressing human rights violations by the Mexican military. Piedra Ibarra is a prominent figure in human rights advocacy, having served as the CNDH president since 2023. Her leadership has been crucial in promoting accountability and transparency regarding human rights issues in Mexico.

CNDH’s Response to Criticism

During a session of the Permanent Commission of the Union Congress, Piedra Ibarra directly addressed critics, including federal deputies and opposition senators. She challenged them to consult the complainants, emphasizing that the CNDH’s role is solely to issue recommendations.

“We do not leave any victim unattended, nor have we ever harmed anyone through our actions,” Piedra Ibarra stated. “Remind this sovereign body that constitutionally, our only obligation is to issue recommendations.”

Quejas Against the Military Branches in 2025

In her annual report presentation for 2025, Piedra Ibarra addressed the number of complaints received by the CNDH against the Mexican Army (Sedena) and Federal Police Force (GN).

  • Sedena received 452 complaints, with 70% (317) resolved through guidance during the process and determining non-competence.
  • GN received 389 complaints, with 60% (233) resolved.

Piedra Ibarra clarified that these authorities no longer commit the most human rights violations, contradicting claims of militarization in Mexico.

Reactions from Senators

Senator Anabell Ávalos (PRI) criticized the CNDH, calling it “a puppet of an authoritarian regime that violates human rights.” Meanwhile, Senator Guadalupe Murguía (PAN) expressed disappointment that the CNDH no longer represents citizens’ human rights and acts as a check on authorities’ actions.

Alejandro Gertz Manero’s Appointment

Alejandro Gertz Manero

The Permanent Commission of the Union Congress ratified President’s nomination of Alejandro Gertz Manero as Mexico’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, including organizations based there. Following his confirmation, Gertz Manero took the oath for his new diplomatic position as the former Federal Attorney General.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the CNDH, and why is it important? The CNDH is Mexico’s National Human Rights Commission, an autonomous body responsible for promoting and protecting human rights in the country. Its importance lies in its role as a watchdog, ensuring accountability and transparency regarding human rights issues.
  • Who is Rosario Piedra Ibarra, and what is her role? Rosario Piedra Ibarra is the president of Mexico’s National Human Rights Commission (CNDH). She has been instrumental in advocating for human rights and addressing violations by Mexican authorities.
  • What were the main points of contention between Piedra Ibarra and critics? Critics accused the CNDH of ineffectiveness, while Piedra Ibarra defended her organization, emphasizing its role in issuing recommendations and reminding critics to consult complainants.
  • What were the numbers of complaints against Sedena and GN in 2025? The CNDH received 452 complaints against Sedena and 389 against GN in 2025. Seventy percent (317) of Sedena’s complaints and 60% (233) of GN’s complaints were resolved.
  • What are the reactions of senators to the CNDH? Senator Anabell Ávalos (PRI) criticized the CNDH as a puppet of an authoritarian regime, while Senator Guadalupe Murguía (PAN) expressed disappointment that the CNDH no longer effectively represents citizens’ human rights and checks authorities.
  • Who is Alejandro Gertz Manero, and what is his new role? Alejandro Gertz Manero is a former Federal Attorney General of Mexico. He has been appointed as Mexico’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, including organizations based there.