UN exposes shocking abuses in Mexico's addiction treatment centres

A UN team has warned of serious risks in Mexico's addiction treatment centres after a recent visit. The Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture (SPT) highlighted coercive practices and poor conditions, particularly in private facilities. Their findings also pointed to broader failures in investigating torture cases across the countries.

The SPT delegation, led by Carmen Comas-Mata, spent six days in Mexico from January 25 to 30. During their third mission to the countries, they inspected prisons, police stations, psychiatric hospitals, and addiction treatment centres. Confidential interviews were held with detainees and staff to assess conditions.

The team expressed alarm over the 'deeply concerning' state of privately run addiction centres. While no exact numbers were released, international reports have flagged issues in states like Jalisco, Guanajuato, and Mexico State. These include inadequate oversight and harsh treatment of patients.

Despite some progress in Mexico's legal framework against torture, the SPT stressed that impunity remains a major problem. They criticised the slow and ineffective handling of torture investigations, calling for stronger action to address systemic failures.

The SPT's report underscores ongoing risks in Mexico's treatment facilities and justice system. Their findings demand urgent reforms to improve conditions and ensure accountability. Without further measures, the subcommittee warned, abuses and impunity will likely persist.