PVEM proposes prison sentences for buying ‘Honoris Causa’ doctorates

The PVEM parliamentary group in the Mexican Senate has proposed a legislative reform to criminalize the sale and purchase of ‘Honoris Causa’ doctorates. The initiative, presented by Senator Karen Castrejón, seeks to penalize the practice of obtaining academic honors through donations or other forms of compensation in money or kind.

Under the proposal, individuals who use or claim a ‘Honoris Causa’ doctorate obtained through such means could face one to six years in prison and fines. Furthermore, those who advertise, offer, promise, or commercialize these academic distinctions, certificates, or diplomas in exchange for donations could face prison sentences ranging from two to twelve years, along with significant fines.

The reform aims to address the distortion of academic merits and protect the public from scams involving fraudulent honorary degrees. Proponents argue that the current practice undermines the prestige of legitimate institutions and affects the integrity of honorary recognitions.