In the bustling heart of Mexico City, where the echoes of history meet the challenges of the present, Anahí Ruelas stands as a beacon of hope for those whose voices are often silenced. A lawyer by training and a human rights advocate by passion, Anahí has dedicated her career to defending the most vulnerable, particularly victims of internal displacement in Mexico.
Her work in academia, public institutions, and civil society organizations has given her a front-row seat to the realities of human rights violations.
Today, Anahí serves as the Director of Liaison and Human Rights in the Federal Institute of Public Defense in Mexico. Her role includes leading strategic litigation on issues ranging from human mobility to socio-environmental matters, always with a firm commitment to human rights. Reflecting on her work, she remarked, “Empathy is the cornerstone of my approach. I believe in understanding the context of each case and the people behind it. That’s where meaningful advocacy begins.”
Anahí’s commitment to justice has already left a mark on Mexico’s legal landscape. One of her most impactful cases involved securing recognition for victims of forced displacement in Chihuahua. Through her efforts, a groundbreaking decision was reached, granting internal displaced persons access to rights under Mexico’s General Law on Victims. This case even reached the Supreme Court, setting a precedent for future litigation.
“That case marked me,” she reflects. “It showed me the power of strategic litigation and the importance of persistence.”
Anahí’s journey is not just about her achievements; it’s also about her continuous quest for knowledge. In 2023, she participated in a course on internal displacement offered by the International Institute for Humanitarian Law (IIHL). For Anahí, the course was a turning point.
“The course helped me see beyond the courtroom. It emphasized the importance of durable solutions and non-judicial mechanisms, which are crucial in a complex legal and political environment like Mexico’s,” she explained.
The course provided her with a holistic understanding of displacement, from legal frameworks to public policy and durable solutions. “The materials were invaluable. I’ve used them to guide my team, draft amparo lawsuits, and even train other lawyers in my institution,” she said.
Looking ahead, Anahí is determined to expand her impact. She plans to focus on durable solutions for displaced persons, exploring mechanisms beyond the judicial sphere.
Anahí envisions a stronger network of legal professionals in Mexico, trained to tackle internal displacement with the rigor and empathy it demands.
“The course was an incentive,” she concludes. “It reminded me that even in the face of challenges, there is always a way forward. And for that, I am grateful.”
Anahí has truly embodied the concept that the Sanremo Institute stands for: Where learning becomes action. Her ability to translate the knowledge gained from the course into tangible outcomes in her work is a testament to her dedication and the practical impact of the IIHL’s training programs.
The International Institute for Humanitarian Law (IIHL) is committed to supporting professionals like Anahí Ruelas through specialized courses and training programs. Together, we can build a world where human rights are respected, protected, and upheld for all.
