Background on the Mexican Bar Association (BMA)
The Mexican Bar Association (BMA) is a prominent organization representing lawyers and legal professionals in Mexico. With a mission to uphold the rule of law, protect human rights, and promote justice, the BMA plays a crucial role in shaping legal discourse and advocating for democratic principles.
BMA’s Concerns Over Censorship Against Journalists
The BMA has raised concerns about acts of censorship through courts against journalists across various states in Mexico. They emphasize that freedom of expression is a cornerstone of any democracy, recognized as a human right in the Mexican Constitution and upheld by international treaties.
Threats to Democracy and the Rule of Law
According to the BMA, attempts to silence critical voices, manipulate public information, or restrict free and open debate pose a direct threat to the constitutional rule of law and democratic coexistence.
Misuse of Legal Instruments and Public Institutions
The BMA has observed the misuse of legal or administrative tools to intimidate or sanction public criticism. They highlight the arbitrary instrumentalization of legal institutions to interfere with and censor journalistic content, including notes and investigations. In extreme cases, they have witnessed the criminalization of freedom of expression.
Furthermore, the BMA has noted the use of public power and institutions to intimidate media outlets, thereby inhibiting press freedom.
BMA’s Call to Action
In response to these concerning developments, the BMA has urged authorities at all levels of government to fully respect and guarantee the exercise of freedom of expression.
Additionally, they have called upon autonomous bodies and the judicial branch to take firm action against any violations of freedom of expression.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Mexican Bar Association (BMA)? The BMA is a leading organization of lawyers and legal professionals in Mexico, dedicated to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and promoting justice.
- What concerns has the BMA raised? The BMA has expressed worry over acts of censorship through courts against journalists, misuse of legal instruments to silence criticism, and the intimidation of media outlets.
- Why is freedom of expression important? Freedom of expression is a fundamental aspect of democracy, recognized as a human right in the Mexican Constitution and international treaties.
- What actions has the BMA taken in response to these concerns? The BMA has called upon authorities at all levels of government to respect and guarantee freedom of expression. They have also urged autonomous bodies and the judicial branch to take firm action against any violations of this right.
