Mexico Supreme Court mandates direct funding for indigenous communities

The Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN) has ruled that at least 10 percent of the Social Infrastructure Contributions Fund (FAIS) must be allocated to indigenous and Afro-Mexican communities. This resolution allows these populations to receive and manage funds directly to address social infrastructure needs, such as potable water, drainage, electrification, housing improvements, and health and education infrastructure.

By recognizing these communities as subjects of public law with legal personality, the court has removed the requirement for them to depend exclusively on municipal governments to manage resources. This change aims to prevent situations where communities were unable to directly accept essential goods or services due to a lack of legal standing. SCJN President Hugo Aguilar Ortiz described the ruling as a historic moment that strengthens the constitutional rights and decision-making capacity of these groups.