Feb 13 • 02:36 UTC 🇲🇽 Mexico Milenio (ES)

Court Takes Up Acteal Case Again; They Seek to Establish Criteria on the Right Not to Be a Victim of Forced Displacement

The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation in Mexico is revisiting the Acteal case to establish legal criteria for the right against forced internal displacement.

The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) in Mexico has decided to take on the Acteal case once again, which involves the tragic events of 1997 where 45 indigenous individuals from Chenalhó were killed. The court's majority vote of seven to two allows for the discussion of a legal amparo that could set a significant precedent regarding the right to not be subjected to internal forced displacement. This constitutional review is of great importance as it may influence the protection of indigenous rights and highlight systemic issues related to displacement in Mexico.

In addition to addressing the legal criteria, the Supreme Court will also consider comprehensive reparations for the victims of the Acteal massacre and necessary actions that must be undertaken by the three branches of the federal government. This is a vital step toward acknowledging past atrocities and providing justice to those affected. The proposal was put forth by Justice Hugo Aguilar Ortiz following a request from a group of Tzotzil individuals from Chiapas, which illustrates the ongoing struggle for rights and recognition within the indigenous communities in Mexico.

The dissenting votes from justices Yasmín Esquivel Mossa and María Estela Ríos González indicate a division within the court regarding the handling of such complex and sensitive issues. The justice assigned to the case will need to propose a project for the full court to evaluate the implications of the amparo rulings, an important factor as the nation grapples with its historical context of violence against indigenous populations. Overall, this renewed focus on the Acteal case signifies a persistent effort to grapple with the legacies of violence and displacement in Mexico and build a more just society.

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