Opening IBA México 2024

Recently, the opening ceremony of the IBA in Mexico took place, in which our member and president of the Association, Almudena Arpón de Mendívil, played a leading role.

Mexico City, 15 September 2024 – The 2024 International Bar Association (IBA) Annual Conference opened with a strong focus on threats to the rule of law and judicial independence. Held at Centro Citibanamex, the event featured speeches by IBA President Almudena Arpón de Mendívil Aldama, Professor Ernesto Zedillo, former President of Mexico, and Norma Lucía Piña Hernández, President of Mexico’s Supreme Court of Justice.

Almudena Arpón de Mendívil addressed concerns about the erosion of democracy in Latin America, highlighting recent developments in Mexico that risk undermining judicial independence. She commended the Mexican legal profession for defending the separation of powers during the constitutional reform process and pledged the IBA’s continued support.

Norma Piña, honored with the first-ever IBA Impact Award, emphasized that justice transcends courts and laws, and is rooted in human rights, equity, and dignity. Professor Zedillo warned about the risks posed by the constitutional reforms, particularly the politicization of the judiciary, expressing concerns that these changes could undermine Mexican democracy.

The IBA Annual Conference, attended by delegates from over 100 jurisdictions, continues to address key issues such as AI legislation, climate change, and judicial independence.