A Powerful and Much-Needed Issue to Know and Reflect On.
The International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims is commemorated every March 24th. It was officially established by the United Nations General Assembly through Resolution A/RES/65/196 in December 2010. This day was established as a tribute and reminder to all victims of gross human rights violations around the world.
? Why is this day so important?
It seeks to honor the memory of the victims, but above all, to recognize the right of societies to know the truth. Truth is not only an ethical principle, but also a tool for healing and justice. When what happened is hidden—through forced disappearances, extrajudicial executions, torture, genocide—victims and their families are denied the opportunity to heal and rebuild their lives.
What does the "right to the truth" mean?
It is the inalienable right of victims and society to know the whole truth about what happened: what happened? Why did it happen? Who was responsible? What is being done to prevent it from happening again?
This right vindicates the memory and dignity of those affected and contributes to ensuring that human rights crimes do not go unpunished or are erased from history.
In honor of Monsignor Óscar Arnulfo Romero
March 24th was chosen to commemorate the life and legacy of Monsignor Óscar Romero, who was assassinated in 1980 while celebrating Mass in El Salvador. He was a tireless defender of human rights, denouncing from the pulpit the injustices and violations of fundamental rights during the Salvadoran civil war. His commitment to truth and justice became a universal symbol of the struggle for human dignity.
Truth as part of justice and reconciliation
The right to truth is also an essential pillar in transitional justice processes, those mechanisms that help countries that have experienced armed conflict or dictatorial regimes rebuild their social fabric and heal as a nation. Without truth, there is no trust in institutions, no guarantee of non-repetition.
The Global Commitment
This day reminds us that States have the responsibility to protect human rights, ensure serious and transparent investigations into serious violations, and protect human rights defenders, journalists, and those seeking justice.
Why is it important to reflect on this day today?
Because even today, in many countries—including Mexico—families continue to seek answers about the forced disappearance of their loved ones, demanding justice and truth for the crimes committed, as do the Searching Mothers, human rights groups, and conflict survivors.
At the state level, Jalisco has experienced an increase in the number of missing persons. A report by Red Lupa indicates that, after reaching 100,000 cases of missing persons in Mexico, the number increased by 7.3% in 2023 and continued to rise by 6.3% in 2024. It is important to note that, according to Red Lupa, the disappearance of women in Jalisco is concentrated in municipalities such as Lagos de Moreno and Puerto Vallarta, associated with human trafficking activities.
Puerto Vallarta, although a place of peace and beauty, is not exempt from the commitment to respect human rights, to be a vigilant and supportive community, and to support efforts for memory and justice.
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