Maya communities warn against state control in proposed indigenous law

Maya collectives and communities from the Yucatan Peninsula, including regions in Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo, have expressed opposition to the proposed General Law of Indigenous and Afro-Mexican Peoples and Communities. While acknowledging positive elements such as the recognition of indigenous peoples as subjects of rights and the protection of traditional knowledge, languages, and territories, the groups warn that the initiative maintains excessive state tutelage.

Key concerns include the proposed mechanism for community recognition, where the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples (INPI) would determine which groups qualify for the National Catalog. Critics argue this undermines autonomy and self-determination. Additionally, they expressed concern that access to natural resources could be restricted by state-designated strategic areas, and that the requirement for a “significant impact” to trigger consultations—as determined by the Ministry of the Interior and INPI—could obstruct effective rights.

Signatories, including the Colectivo Maya de los Chenes and the Utsil Kuxtal Human Rights Center, are demanding that the law recognize diverse forms of indigenous organization and ensure that failure to register in the National Catalog does not result in the denial or limitation of rights.