MC-IAWJ serves as a unified voice for women judges and proposes several key actions within the framework of the WILIL program: (1) establishing a robust, inclusive, and sustainable Mexico association and (2) identifying short and long-term strategic interventions to tackle the barriers women face in entering, advancing, and flourishing within the Mexican judiciary.
****
On October 1st, 2024 Mexico welcomed its first woman President, Claudia Sheinbaum. Sheinbaum is a scientist by background who, in 2007, won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in climate change. Before stepping into her role as president, she was the mayor of Mexico City and offered a data driven approach to crime reduction that resulted in a 50% reduction in homicide rates.
President Sheinbaum is in support of controversial legislation that will change the judicial appointment system. On October 14th, Mexico’s lower house of Congress voted in favour of the implementation of an election system for federal judges, including the Supreme Court. This system will end judicial appointments, and instead, will place the power amongst voters. Previously appointed judges will need to run for their positions during the next election cycle.
October 24th – 25th, members of IAWJ travelled to Mexico City to attend a conference organized by MC-IAWJ. This conference was an opportunity for judges to collaborate on innovation ideas, such as artificial intelligence and technology. Given that it is an uncertain time in the judiciary, the conference also served as a forum for discussion, community building, and thought.