The Mexican government has repeatedly stated its commitment to prevent and punish
violations of human rights in Mexico. However, violations such as the arbitrary detentions,
torture and ill treatment which took place in Guadalajara during the Third Summit of Heads
of State and Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union in May
2004 highlight the fact that serious abuses of this nature, particularly at state and municipal
level, are still commonplace in the country. The response of the state authorities to these
events was to justify the police action and discredit all those involved in the demonstrations,
providing further evidence that impunity is a constant threat to the rule of law in Mexico.