The world’s largest organisation of lawyers has entered the row over the Mexican government’s judicial reform plans, raising ‘serious concerns’ about the independence of the judiciary. The intervention by the International Bar Association comes on the eve of the association's annual conference, which is expected to attract thousands of lawyers to Mexico City later this month. 

Judges and magistrates across Mexico went on indefinite strike last month over reform plans announced by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. These include the appointment of judges by popular vote, a reduction in terms of office and the creation of a judicial disciplinary court also elected by popular vote.

According to the IBA, which represents 80,000 individual lawyers and 190 professional bodies from 170 countries, the proposed changes are being introduced at a 'worrisome' pace which could threaten judicial independence. 

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'The judicial reform should not risk the essential mission of an independent judiciary, namely the fundamental right of all persons to receive an independent, professional and fair administration of justice, which is recognised by the Mexican constitution', the IBA said. The rule of law protects not only human rights but promotes sustainable economic growth. 'A country like Mexico, currently ranked 12th in the world economic ranking by GDP, should not jeopardise sustainable growth which is so beneficial to Mexican society.' 

The IBA strongly recommends that the programme 'be considered in light of Mexicans’ fundamental right to independent justice and compliance with international standards. This would ensure that the judicial branch has the best, completely independent professionals for the benefit of Mexican society.'