DAVID
The human rights situation in Mexico today remains severe. Gross human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture and enforced disappearances are rampant, while impunity for these crimes is the norm as the criminal justice system often fails to provide justice to victims. As of November 2020, the government reported the disappearance of more than 75,000 people—the vast majority of which were from 2006 onwards. Mexico is currently one of the most dangerous countries in the world for human rights defenders. This is especially alarming for those like David who work on enforced disappearances. “It is not only human rights defenders who face this danger, but also ordinary Mexicans.”
“As a human rights defender, I accompany and advise family members of missing persons in the border state Coahuila. Mexico faces many enforced disappearances and human rights violations, often related to narcotraffic, femicides and migration. The documentation of missing persons is crucial for accessing justice in my country.”
David’s area of work is filled with violence and corruption as authorities promote impunity and choose to protect criminal, political and commercial interests over citizens. This has unfortunately led to David and his organisation being threatened, vilified, intimidated and attacked by members of organised crime and security forces. As a result of these violent challenges, David has chosen to lead a quiet life.
David stayed in Shelter City Utrecht in 2021. He took the opportunity to get some much-needed rest and explore the Netherlands. He also met other activists and organisations as he continued to raise awareness on enforced disappearances and human rights violations in Mexico.
