Plan to Certify Mexico’s Human Rights Record Rejected

U.S. Sen. Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) has put a hold on a State Department plan to endorse Mexico’s human-rights record, putting in jeopardy U.S. antidrug aid to its southern neighbor.

Reuters reported Aug. 5 that Leahy balked at the State Department’s intention to approve Mexico’s conduct as it wages a bloody battle against drug traffickers. Leahy heads a committee with jurisdiction over foreign-aid money. The finding in favor of Mexico’s human-rights conduct was slated to be issued prior to President Obama’s visit to Guadalajara this weekend.

Congress, in approving a $1.4-billion package of antidrug aid to Mexico, tied $100 million in annual funding to Mexico’s compliance with international human-rights standards.