Mexico’s Judicial Overhaul: The Divisive Effects of Systematic Change

The Mexican Senate’s decision to abolish the current judicial system and allow citizens to elect judges has had extremely divisive effects, both domestically and internationally. Advocates for the change argue that it gives Mexicans a greater voice and limits graft and nepotism, while opponents worry the decision will slow the country’s economy and signal the end of judicial independence.

AmericasBy Catherine SmithNovember 8, 2024Mexico, appointment-based judiciary, President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, Morena, Supreme Court, Claudia Sheinbaum, trade-relations, United States/Mexico relations, elected judges, Democracy, Mexico City, Ambassador Salazar, judges strike, Luis de la Calle, independent judiciary

The Origins of Poland’s Feud with the European Union

Poland's ruling Law and Justice Party (PiS) has been attacking the independence of the Polish judiciary since they came to power in 2015. The European Union has repeatedly taken action against Poland, including triggering Article 7 of the Treaty on the European Union and imposing daily fines for Poland's refusal to suspend the functions of the Disciplinary Chamber for the Supreme Court, which was ruled unlawful by the European Court of Human Rights in 2021.