Legal mobilisation as a societal response to violence: lessons from Michoacán

This briefing paper is part of a broader project investigating societal responses to violence in the state of Michoacan in Mexico. It explores how local organisations and associations have used legal mobilisation strategies to counter extreme violence, with a particular focus on three vulnerable groups: families of victims of forced disappearances; victims of sexual and gender-based violence; and sex workers.

All three groups have used various means of legal mobilisation to seek justice, protect their interests and reduce their vulnerability. While these efforts have secured some notable achievements, they have also faced substantial challenges and limitations.