Mexico Criticized

MEXICO CITY (AP) - Amnesty International on Tuesday criticized Mexico's human rights policy as "schizophrenic," saying the country vigorously promotes rights abroad but fails to uphold them within its own borders.

"Mexico is a very prominent champion of human rights internationally," Amnesty secretary-general Irene Khan told a news conference after meeting with President Calderon. "But within Mexico, serious abuses of human rights continue, including torture, arbitrary detention and unfair trials."

Ms. Khan said the organization wants the administration of Calderon, who took office Dec. 1, to clarify its willingness to "put an end to this schizophrenic approach."

The president's office said in a statement that during their meeting he had stressed "Mexico's policy of total openness to examination by, and cooperation with, international human rights organizations." It also said he "reiterated the government's commitment to the promotion and protection of the fundamental human rights and freedoms of all Mexicans."

Mr. Calderon's office said Mexico has made progress on press freedom, public access to government information and judicial reforms, working to "guarantee public safety and combat organized crime while maintaining a firm commitment to human rights."

Ms. Khan acknowledged that Mexico's record has improved in recent decades, but said it still needs to advance in critical areas such as police accountability, judicial process and treatment of suspected criminals.

"The real test will be how the president reflects and implements human rights in his forthcoming legislative and policy reforms," Ms. Khan said.