Abstract

LLANES-SALAZAR, Rodrigo; DZUL-CANUL, Patricia  and  VARGAS-HERNANDEZ, Arely. Nature’s rights vs indigenous rights? Defending cenotes in Yucatan. Alteridades [online]. 2025, vol.35, n.69, pp.39-49.  Epub Aug 25, 2025. ISSN 2448-850X.  https://doi.org/10.24275/xbgt4677.

This article analyzes the relationship between the Rights of Nature (RoN) and indigenous rights based on a case in Yucatan: the request made by a Mayan organization for cenotes to be recognized as subjects of rights. The work was based on the review of specialized literature on the subject and interviews with key actors in order to inquire about the advocacy network that promoted the initiative on cenotes. Among the main findings, we found that this demand is formulated not only in the framework of the RoN, but also in the framework of the right to self-determination, which is sought to be made effective through the claim of the figure of guardianship. Likewise, we highlight the transforming potential of the request, particularly pertaining the proposal of a progressive interpretation of Article 4 of the Mexican Constitution.

Keywords : pollution; groundwater; climate crisis; environmental law; self-determination; indigenous people.

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