Comisión Nacional de los Derechos Humanos
CNDH
Summary
The Comisión Nacional de los Derechos Humanos (CNDH) is Mexico's federal human rights ombudsman, constitutionally established under Article 102, Apartado B of the Constitución Política. Its President is elected by a qualified majority of the Senate for a five-year term, renewable once. The CNDH investigates complaints about human rights violations by federal authorities, issues non-binding recommendations, and promotes human rights education nationwide. Its recommendations are publicly reported and any authority that declines to comply must publicly justify its refusal. The CNDH cannot review judicial acts or electoral matters. Since 1999 the President of the CNDH has been elected by the Senate rather than designated by the executive, enhancing institutional independence. As of November 2024, María del Rosario Piedra Ibarra serves as President for the term 2024-2029.
Independence Scorecard
| Appointment | Supermajority legislative appointment |
|---|---|
| Term length | 5 years |
| Removal standard | For cause only |
| Budget independence | Legislative line item |
| Subpoena power | No |
| Compel testimony | No |
| Records access | Case-by-case |
| Public reports required | Yes |
| Pre-publication review | None — reports published directly |
Statute
- Name
- Ley de la Comisión Nacional de los Derechos Humanos; Constitución Política Art. 102 Apartado B
- Citation
- Ley CNDH (D.O.F. 29-06-1992, última reforma); Constitución Art. 102-B
- Full text
- Full text of law →
Jurisdiction scope
Alleged violations of human rights by federal public servants and authorities; investigates complaints, issues recommendations, and promotes human rights education. Does not have jurisdiction over judicial acts or electoral matters.