Sabina Berman Responds to CNDH’s Critique of Her Article on Rosario Piedra Ibarra
Sabina Berman, a journalist, responded to a statement from the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH). The CNDH questioned her claims about their performance under Rosario Piedra Ibarra, the re-elected head of the commission.
Berman stated that the CNDH, under Piedra’s leadership, favored the government over victims. The CNDH responded, asking for evidence of her claims. They highlighted that out of over 82,000 complaints during President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration, only 1,270 recommendations were made, which is approximately 1.5% of the total complaints.
In her reply on social media, Berman insisted on the accuracy of the CNDH’s data. She asked Piedra to correct any false information. If the data is true, she urged an explanation.
Addressing Piedra’s assertion of a “violent campaign of disqualifications” against her, Berman emphasized the need for a commission that protects ordinary people’s rights against powerful forces like the military and police.
How has Sabina Berman’s stance impacted the conversation around human rights in Mexico?
Interview with Sabina Berman on the Recent CNDH Controversy
NewsDirectory3: Sabina, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with your recent statements regarding the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) under Rosario Piedra Ibarra. What prompted you to speak out?
Sabina Berman: Thank you for having me. I spoke out because I believe the CNDH has shifted its focus to favoring the government rather than protecting the rights of victims. The statistics they provided—over 82,000 complaints with only 1,270 recommendations—speak volumes about their current performance. It raises questions about their commitment to human rights in Mexico.
NewsDirectory3: The CNDH has requested evidence for your claims. How do you plan to respond to this?
Sabina Berman: I maintain the accuracy of the CNDH’s own data. If they claim those numbers, then they need to explain why such a low percentage of recommendations were made. My concern is not just about the numbers but about the implications they have for victims of human rights abuses.
NewsDirectory3: You mentioned a “violent campaign of disqualifications” against you initiated by Piedra. Can you elaborate on that?
Sabina Berman: It’s troubling when a head of a human rights institution resorts to attacking a journalist instead of addressing the substantive issues at hand. This feels more like a display of state power over the press rather than a constructive dialogue. Journalists play a crucial role in holding institutions accountable, and targeting us undermines that responsibility.
NewsDirectory3: In light of these tensions, what steps will you take moving forward?
Sabina Berman: I intend to file a legal complaint against both Rosario Piedra Ibarra and the CNDH for their actions. It’s essential to establish that there should be accountability for those who are supposed to protect human rights. I also believe that we need a commission dedicated to truly safeguarding the rights of ordinary people against powerful institutions like the military and police.
NewsDirectory3: Your outspoken stance has stirred significant conversation. What message do you hope your actions will convey to the public?
Sabina Berman: I hope to encourage others to speak out against injustices, especially when they see institutions failing to uphold their mandates. We are at a critical juncture in Mexico where the defense of human rights requires vigilance and courage from everyone, especially from those in positions of influence. The public has a right to know and demand accountability from their institutions.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you, Sabina, for your insights and for shedding light on this important issue.
Sabina Berman: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these crucial matters.
Berman questioned why Piedra chose to attack a civilian journalist if not to demonstrate the state’s power over the press. She announced her intention to file a legal complaint against both Rosario Piedra Ibarra and the CNDH.
This exchange highlights ongoing tensions between media professionals and institutions regarding human rights and accountability in Mexico.