Mexican President Sheinbaum Says Mexico Has Submitted 30 UN Complaints Over Treatment of Mexican Nationals in the U.S.

Mexico has filed 30 formal complaints with the United Nations alleging human rights violations against Mexican nationals in the United States, President Claudia Sheinbaum said.

Sheinbaum told reporters her government is providing legal support through the Foreign Ministry and the Mexican consular network. She rejected policies or practices that "criminalize migrants," saying: "With the consulates, we support and provide financial assistance so attorneys can be hired for victims to file complaints and pursue cases in the United States."

Sheinbaum went on to claim that Mexico does not dispute U.S. legal processes when crimes are committed but opposes what she described as stigmatization. "We do not agree with treating Mexican men and women as criminals. If someone committed a crime, they must face their process in the United States," she said.

Sheinbaum also emphasized the size of the Mexican community in the United States, estimating it at 40 million people, mostly with regular status or long-term residency. "They strengthen the U.S. economy," she said, noting that roughly 90% have legal papers, while most of the remaining group has lived in the country for more than five or six years. She added that irregular crossings by Mexicans have declined in recent years.

Sheinbaum said Mexican migrants play a significant role in agriculture, construction, and services, and that they "must be recognized for their work." She reiterated that her government will defend nationals without intervening in U.S. domestic politics. "We will always seek dialogue, coordination, and when we disagree we will say so — but always responsibly."

Her comments come amid increased immigration enforcement in several U.S. states, particularly near the border and at work sites. The Foreign Ministry reported in October that ten Mexican nationals have died during immigration enforcement operations or while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody during the second term of President Donald Trump.

The remarks also follow earlier criticism from Sheinbaum related to the September killing of Mexican national Silverio Villegas during an ICE operation in Illinois. After the shooting, she said her administration issued a diplomatic note and was supporting Villegas' family. She questioned the treatment of migrants at the time, saying, "there is no reason to discriminate."