INAI Warns Against Agency Cuts

INAI strongly criticizes the proposal to eliminate autonomous agencies, citing concerns about its impact on public life and human rights. Dialogues are urged to address the reform’s implications.

### INAI Criticizes Reform Proposal to Eliminate Autonomous Agencies

The National Institute for Access to Information (INAI) has voiced strong opposition to a recent decision by the Committee on Constitutional Points within the Chamber of Deputies to approve a bill that aims to eliminate several autonomous agencies. The INAI has called for open dialogue with legislators to thoroughly analyze the reform’s implications.

In a statement released on X (formerly known as Twitter), the INAI labeled the approval as a significant setback that would impact the quality of public life and citizens’ trust in institutions. They emphasized, “We express our concern and make an urgent call to legislators and society to discuss this proposal, which would drastically affect the exercise of human rights in our country. The INAI is not just an agency; it is a cornerstone in building a strong and transparent democracy.”

The statement also called for stakeholders to engage in a constructive dialogue and to establish an open forum for discussing the importance of preserving these autonomous agencies. This controversial bill, proposed by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador and supported by President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, was passed with 22 votes in favor from Morena party members and allies, and 17 votes against. The bill is subject to approval by the next Legislature.

The proposal argues for the elimination of these agencies under the justification of budget savings to prioritize social spending. The government argues that, under an administration committed to honesty, these agencies’ sustainability is no longer necessary.

Agencies targeted for elimination under the proposal include the Federal Economic Competition Commission (Cofece), the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), the National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information, and Protection of Personal Data (INAI), the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy (Coneval), the Energy Regulatory Commission (CRE), the National Hydrocarbons Commission (CNH), and the National Commission for the Continuous Improvement of Education (MEJOREDU).

### Additional Report on Reform Proposal

Further insights into this reform reveal varying opinions among political analysts and human rights organizations. Critics argue that dissolving these agencies would significantly hinder transparency and accountability, while proponents claim it would streamline government functions and reduce public spending.

Interest groups have warned that the elimination of these autonomous bodies could result in decreased oversight in critical areas such as economic competition, telecommunications regulation, and data protection.

International observers have also shown concern. Reports from global organizations highlight the essential roles these agencies play in ensuring democratic governance and safeguarding citizens’ rights. They urge the Mexican government to consider alternative solutions that wouldn’t compromise these integral functions.

As debates continue, the future of Mexico’s autonomous agencies hangs in the balance, with the next legislative session expected to be pivotal in determining their fate.