Mexico’s State Acquiesces to Disappearances

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (CIDH) released a report on May 11th detailing Mexico’s response to forced disappearances. The report draws a parallel between the state’s inaction and the character Bartleby, who passively declines all tasks. CIDH finds that Mexico’s high number of disappearances, exceeding 128,000 people as of June 2025, suggests authorities knowingly allowed criminal organizations to operate.

The report notes roughly 70,000 unidentified bodies have been found. It also highlights disproportionate impacts on young men, girls, adolescents, migrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, human rights defenders, and journalists. Mexico’s legal framework defines “acquiescence” as a form of complicity in forced disappearances but lacks a precise legal definition of what constitutes it.

CIDH recommends Mexico legislate a clear definition of acquiescence, specifying the penalties for inaction. The commission also urges differentiated security policies to address the diverse vulnerabilities of affected groups. The work to clarify responsibility and prevent further disappearances continues.