SCJN regulates sessions in indigenous communities

The new Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) published the Session Regulations, in which it considers substantial changes to the model of the previous era of the High Court, such as holding sessions outside of Mexico City , in indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities , as well as giving priority to public sessions.

The Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) published the document, which states that private sessions will not be eliminated, but will be held on an exceptional basis and only by agreement of President Hugo Aguilar .

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“ As a general rule, sessions must be public. Admission will be granted to those wishing to attend, taking into account the capacity of the plenary hall . The Presidency, with the assistance of the competent administrative bodies or directorates, will guarantee the necessary conditions so that members of Indigenous and Afro-Mexican Peoples and Communities, or individuals or groups in vulnerable situations or with disabilities, can access the sessions.”

Changes in the Supreme Court sessions

Another change is that the Court is holding extraordinary sessions, including during recess periods, which traditionally began on December 16 and continued through the first Monday in January , as well as the last two weeks of July each year.

The agreement indicates that, by decision of the ministers or at the request of the public, sessions may be held outside of Mexico City , but the "request must be submitted before the close of the investigation in the case of constitutional disputes and unconstitutionality actions, or before the publication of the list in other cases."

In a private session, the ministers will vote on the request to hold an outside session , and if approved, the administrative departments will be instructed to organize the session and ensure security.

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"When extraordinary sessions in the territory are to be held in Indigenous or Afro-Mexican Towns and Communities, the areas of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation will establish a coordination relationship with the community authorities in order to respect their norms, customs, and forms of organization," the regulations state.

Another agreement is that on matters of national importance or involving vulnerable groups, children, or people with disabilities, it will be mandatory to draft rulings in an easy-to-read format and ensure their transparency.