Mexico’s Space Agency Warns of Governance Risks in ATDT Shift

Personnel from the Mexican Space Agency (AEM) have voiced concerns over the proposed transfer of the agency’s functions to the newly created Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency (ATDT), warning that the move could dismantle Mexico’s space governance structure and jeopardize international commitments.

In a formal letter addressed to President Claudia Sheinbaum, titled “Request for Continuity and Restructuring of the Mexican Space Agency,” AEM staff argue that integrating the agency into ATDT represents a step backward for Mexico’s technological and scientific development. The letter highlights that such a transition “creates an institutional void and fragments space governance in Mexico.”

“This is not a strengthening process, but the dismantling of the agency,” the letter reads. The authors propose maintaining AEM as an independent organization with technical and managerial autonomy, restructured under the Ministry of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation (SECIHTI).

A comparative analysis included in the letter reveals that 70% of AEM’s responsibilities and legal functions, as defined by its founding law, are incompatible with ATDT’s regulatory framework. Conversely, 80% of these functions align with SECIHTI’s structure and mandates.

Concerns intensified after ATDT requested resignations from AEM’s technical and administrative staff between Mar. 31 and Apr. 15. Workers report that the request was made without transition plans, employment guarantees, or severance compensation for years of service. “No legal or institutional framework supports the integration, nor were mechanisms provided to ensure job continuity,” the staff noted

These developments prompted a meeting on Apr. 8 between AEM staff and Eruviel Ávila, President, Science, Technology and Innovation Commission of the Chamber of Deputies. Deputy Cristina Márquez also attended the meeting, where concerns were formally presented to both the commission and ATDT representatives. Ávila confirmed the meeting and indicated that a response from ATDT is pending.

Key concerns include the future of AEM staff stationed at Regional Centers for Space Development (CREDES) in the State of Mexico and Zacatecas, as well as those in central offices in Mexico City. Employees also highlighted the potential violation of Mexico’s obligations under international space cooperation agreements with agencies such as NASA, ESA, ISRO (India), KARI (South Korea), and JAXA (Japan), as well as commitments under United Nations space treaties.

Personnel further criticized the lack of consultation with Mexico’s scientific community, a process integral to AEM’s establishment in 2010. “This restructuring is being carried out without comparable dialogue, ignoring the voices of those involved in the nation’s scientific and technological development,” the letter concludes.