Human rights defender's story: Xavier Martinez from Mexico

Xavier Martinez serves as the Technical Director at CEMDA, a pivotal Mexican NGO focused on environmental rights. For over 25 years, Martinez and his team have been at the forefront of efforts to protect and promote the human right to a healthy environment in a country rich with cultural heritage but plagued by policies that do not foster this right.

In Mexico, where the legal and policy frameworks often contribute to symbolic and structural violence, CEMDA’s work is critical. Martinez explains that their approach involves extensive collaboration with local communities and organisations to empower individuals to utilise their rights effectively. Through workshops and education on rights to information, participation, and judicial access, CEMDA enables communities to question and influence the development processes that affect their environments directly.

Martinez emphasises that their work is not only about environmental protection but also about building a foundation for enduring peace by altering how decisions are made in Mexico. He passionately calls for global action to protect and respect human rights, underscoring that the actions taken in homes and communities are integral to constructing sustainable processes for peace worldwide.

Xavier Martinez’s leadership at CEMDA illustrates a commitment to transforming environmental governance in Mexico to ensure that all citizens can enjoy a safe and healthy environment. His message is clear: real change requires a collective effort to respect and advocate for human rights at every level.