Mexico’s New Telecom Law: Rights vs. Democracy Risks

Mexico City, Mexico — In the digital age, internet access has transitioned from a privilege to an essential right. Connectivity no longer merely serves as a gateway to entertainment or information—it has become a critical tool for exercising fundamental rights such as access to education, healthcare, dignified employment, and civic participation. The newly enacted Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law has sparked a necessary debate from ethical, legal, and social perspectives.

A Step Toward Digital Inclusion

Recognizing telecommunications as a public good of general interest represents a potential milestone for millions still excluded from digital networks. This includes rural communities, marginalized areas, low-income populations, and historically overlooked Indigenous groups. For them, connectivity offers a tangible opportunity to access other rights and amplify their voices in matters affecting their lives.

The law also emphasizes the protection of audience rights by mandating that media outlets clearly distinguish between opinion and news, establish internal ombudsman offices, and adhere to ethical codes. These measures aim to foster transparency, diversity, and accountability in communication.

Concerns Over Institutional Independence

However, the legislation has drawn criticism for dismantling the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), an autonomous body responsible for regulating the sector independently of political influence. Its elimination and the creation of new entities under the federal executive branch raise concerns about future impartiality in decision-making.

From a human rights and Culture of Peace perspective, this institutional restructuring poses significant challenges. A healthy democracy requires technically independent bodies, effective channels for public participation, and safeguards against the misuse of technology for surveillance or suppression. While the law retains provisions allowing authorities to access sensitive data like geolocation—now requiring judicial approval—critics warn that in a country with a history of espionage, journalist persecution, and repression of dissent, legal loopholes risk abuse. Transparency and accountability must be verifiable, not merely aspirational.

The Broader Democratic Implications

The Culture of Peace extends beyond the absence of violence; it demands environments where individuals can express ideas without fear, defend rights without retaliation, and exercise freedoms with respect. Concentrating such critical decisions under a single political authority contradicts these principles, as does eliminating autonomous bodies that ensure pluralism and public oversight.

Mexico must advance its digital sovereignty with democratic consciousness, respect for cultural diversity, adherence to human rights, and policies reflecting collective interests. Connectivity for remote communities is vital, but it must be paired with protections for their freedom, identity, and self-determination.

As Dr. Candy Raygoza, an attorney, psychotherapist specializing in hypnosis and thanatology, and national president of Líderes Juaristas A.C., notes: “Connecting is important, but we must not disconnect from what is essential: justice, dignity, participation, and peace.”