Mexico hosts First National Dialogue for a Culture of Peace

The Mexican Ministry of the Interior (Secretaría de Gobernación) hosted the First National Dialogue for a Culture of Peace on September 17 and 18. The event brought together authorities, specialists, academics, and social organizations from all 32 Mexican states to exchange experiences and develop community-based proposals to prevent violence and guarantee human rights.

Rocío Bárcena Molina, Undersecretary of Peacebuilding, Social Participation, and Religious Affairs, emphasized that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility involving schools, families, and social organizations rather than being the sole duty of security forces. She noted that the initiative aligns with President Claudia Sheinbaum’s vision of prioritizing social justice and addressing the root causes of violence.

Arturo Medina, Undersecretary of Human Rights, Population, and Migration, stated that the ministry is working to create conditions of dignity, security, and freedom. The dialogue included six working groups focusing on topics such as education for peace, youth involvement, gender perspectives in peace processes, peaceful conflict resolution, and justice and human rights.