This study calls upon the competent authorities in the legislative process to create a set of firm legal standards to put an end to the persistent practice of torture. The document by CMDPDH and OMCT presents the key elements for the new law on torture, based on the obligations to prevent and eradicate torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment that Mexico is bound by.
«It is necessary and essential to adopt a General Law that criminalizes torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, and sets out the highest international standards on an effective prosecution of acts of torture,» said José Antonio Guevara, Executive Director of the CMDPDH.
There are currently no mechanisms that ensure transparency and proper public consultation in the process of elaboration of the new law. In this context, CMDPDH and OMCT, in coordination with other non-governmental organisations, have requested that the Executive and Legislative Federal Branches establish mechanisms allowing for dialogue and for the adequate and meaningful consultation with members of civil society and anti-torture organisations.
«In our global experience it is vital for the establishment of an effective legal framework of torture to consult with those affected, civil society and anti-torture organisations. There are plenty of experience of countries that have adopted similar pieces of legislation that could inform the debate on the new law in Mexico,» said Gerald Staberock, Secretary General of the OMCT.
Both organisations believe that the adoption of a new law and the inclusion of a participatory process will be a litmus test of the commitment for the eradication of torture of Mexican authorities.
For further information, please contact:
Mariana Gurrola, CMDPDH
E-mail: comunicacion@cmdpdh.
Tel: +52 (55) 55642582, ext. 114
Astrid Salcedo Pinzón / Helena Solà Martín, OMCT
E-mail: asp@omct.org / hs@omct.org
Tel: +41 228094939
