Article 123

Definition

Article 123 is a provision in the Mexican Constitution that establishes labor rights and protections for workers, including the right to organize, strike, and receive fair wages. It was enacted in 1917 during the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution, aiming to address social injustices and improve the conditions of the working class. This article is significant as it laid the foundation for labor laws in Mexico and reflected the revolutionary ideals of social justice and economic reform.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Article 123 was influenced by the social demands arising from the Mexican Revolution and sought to empower workers by providing them with essential rights.
2. It guarantees the right to form labor unions, which allows workers to collectively negotiate for better wages and working conditions.
3. The article also established a legal framework for labor disputes, enabling workers to seek resolution through arbitration rather than solely through employer decisions.
4. Article 123 emphasizes protections for both men and women in the workforce, promoting gender equality in employment rights.
5. It has been amended several times since its enactment to adapt to changing economic and social conditions in Mexico.

Review Questions

• How did Article 123 reflect the social changes brought about by the Mexican Revolution?
  • Article 123 reflected the social changes brought about by the Mexican Revolution by addressing the urgent need for labor rights and protections that emerged from the struggles of workers during this period. It aimed to combat the exploitation that many workers faced under previous regimes by establishing fundamental rights such as organizing into unions, striking, and receiving fair wages. This shift demonstrated a commitment to social justice and equity in a time when such values were being championed by revolutionary leaders.
• Evaluate the impact of Article 123 on labor movements in Mexico after its adoption.
  • After its adoption, Article 123 significantly impacted labor movements in Mexico by providing a legal foundation for workers to advocate for their rights. Labor unions grew in strength as they were now legally recognized entities able to negotiate with employers on behalf of their members. This empowerment led to increased worker activism, as seen in numerous strikes and demands for better working conditions, thus shaping the landscape of labor relations in Mexico for decades.
• Assess how Article 123 has evolved over time in response to economic changes in Mexico and its implications for current labor policies.
  • Over time, Article 123 has evolved to address various economic changes in Mexico, including shifts toward globalization and changes in labor markets. Amendments have been made to strengthen protections against exploitation while adapting to modern employment challenges like informal work arrangements. This evolution reflects ongoing struggles for labor rights within a changing economic context and highlights how contemporary labor policies continue to grapple with balancing workers' rights against market demands, showing that the legacy of Article 123 remains relevant today.

Related terms

Mexican Revolution:

A major armed struggle that took place between 1910 and 1920, aimed at overthrowing the long-standing dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz and addressing issues of land reform, labor rights, and social inequality.

Labor Union: An organized association of workers formed to protect and advance their rights and interests, including negotiating wages, working conditions, and benefits.

Social Justice: The concept of fair and just relations between individuals and society, often focused on issues of equality, human rights, and access to resources.