The UN-OHCHR in Mexico expressed its dismay over the murders of journalist Roxana Guzmán and environmental activist Alex Serna, which occurred in June and July 2026.
The organization urged Mexican authorities to clarify the events and ensure justice, considering the exercise of freedom of expression of both victims as a line of investigation.
The Cases
- Roxana Guzmán: director of a digital media outlet, was kidnapped in Veracruz in early June. Her remains were identified days later. She was the only woman covering the police beat in the southern part of the state.
- Alex Serna: a communicator specializing in environmental issues, disappeared in Guerrero and his body was found after several days. He contributed to the defense of water and land, in addition to denouncing possible acts of corruption.
The UN-OHCHR emphasized the need to ensure safe conditions for the practice of journalism and environmental defense, especially given the differentiated risks faced by women journalists.
Reactions and Arrests
Guzmán’s case shocked the country after a video of her kidnapping was released. Eight people were arrested, including municipal police officers, although the federal Security Secretary, Omar García Harfuch, warned that more arrests are still pending.
President Claudia Sheinbaum called on journalists to approach the Ministry of the Interior to request protection measures when they consider their safety to be at risk.
Context of Violence
According to the organization Article 19, since the year 2000, 176 journalists have been murdered in Mexico and another 32 remain missing.
States like Veracruz and Guerrero concentrate a worrying number of attacks against communicators and environmental defenders.
Protection of Environmental Activists
The defense of the environment is vital to safeguard ecosystems and human rights against economic and extractive interests.
Reasons for Protection
- Vital Defense: they protect forests, water, and biodiversity from pollution and climate change.
- Social Justice: they protect ancestral and community territories from abuses and evictions.
- Democratic Control: they curb corruption and demand transparency in decisions about land use.
Fundamental Rights at Risk
- Right to Life and Security: they face threats, harassment, and physical assaults.
- Freedom of Expression and Association: they suffer criminalization and persecution.
- Access to Information and Justice: they require frameworks like the Escazú Agreement to participate in environmental decisions without reprisals.
The murders of Roxana Guzmán and Alex Serna reflect the vulnerability of journalists and activists in Mexico.
The UN-OHCHR’s demand points to ensuring justice and strengthening protection mechanisms, recognizing that the defense of freedom of expression and the environment are essential pillars for democracy and human rights.
