FAQ

Frequently asked questions about the project:

What is the Justice in Mexico Project?

As part of the University of San Diego’s Trans-Border Institute, the Justice in Mexico Project conducts regular monitoring, research, and analysis of major public security problems, justice-sector reform efforts, and human rights issues in Mexico.

Which are the activities of the JMP?

a) Data gathering: A team of project researchers and volunteers compile data from wire and newspaper reports from Lexis/Nexis and from credible websites to monitor developments in public security, justice-sector reform, and human rights in Mexico.

b) Original research and analysis: The project generates cutting edge research to evaluate crime and violence, criminal justice sector reform, and human rights issues in Mexico.

c) Cutting edge surveys: The project evaluates police and judicial reform in Mexico. These studies build on the Trans-Border Institute’s “Justiciabarómetro” research initiative, a groundbreaking set of surveys of institutional insiders–judges, prosecutors, public defenders, and police officers–that contribute original data for unpacking and analyzing the “black box” of Mexico’s justice sector.

d) News monitoring: The Project conducts regular monitoring, research, and analysis of major public security problems, justice-sector reform efforts, and human rights issues in Mexico. TBI generated twelve monthly reports documenting and cataloguing a wide range of events and issues related to these topics. TBI’s Justice in Mexico Project website serves as a clearinghouse to connect those seeking information on Mexico’s rule of law challenges to the information that they need.

Can the JMP assist or represent me with in a legal or other kind of conflict?

As a research institution the JMP conducts regular monitoring, research, and analysis of major public security problems, justice-sector reform efforts, and human rights issues in Mexico. While we try to provide as much insight, research, and support to our followers, the JMP does not act as an advocacy group nor is able to provide concrete assistance or representation. However, we encourage you to go to our Partner Institutions page (http://justiceinmexico.org/about/institutions/) or go to our related links page that might point you in the direction of an institution that could hopefully be of some help.

What kind of date the JMP compile?

Since November 2007, TBI’s Justice in Mexico Project has compiled Reforma’s data on drug-related killings as reported at the state level on a weekly basis, as well as the annual totals by state from 2006 to the present.  The full dataset is available in Microsoft Excel format  and is constantly updated. Plus, the JMP compile data from official sources from Mexico and the United States

Does the TBI have fellowship opportunities for the JMP?

Unfortunately the Trans-Border Institute does not have a formal fellowship program, as it does not have the capacity to fund one. In the past, however, TBI has accepted a limited number of Visiting Scholars. Candidates are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and it is recommended that applicants have the ability to support themselves through other financial means.