Mexico Appoints New Head of Federal Labor Defense Office

Plácido Morales has been appointed as the new head of Mexico's Federal Labor Defense Office (PROFEDET), following a formal ceremony led by Marath Bolaños, Minister of Labor and Social Welfare.

In a move aimed at furthering labor reform in Mexico, Bolaños officially swore in Plácido Morales as the new leader of PROFEDET. The transition occurs as PROFEDET nears its 100th year of service, marking a long legacy of providing legal representation to Mexico’s workers without charge, primarily focused on safeguarding labor rights.

“I administered the oath of office to Dr. Plácido Morales as head of PROFEDET. He will, without a doubt, assume and fulfill this role with responsibility, integrity, and transparency, as he has consistently demonstrated throughout his career in Mexico’s labor sector,” said Bolaños via X.

Bolaños also commended Morales’s commitment to Mexico's transformation, aligning with broader labor reform initiatives championed by President Claudia Sheinbaum's administration, often referred to as Mexico’s "labor spring."

“Following the instructions of President Claudia Sheinbaum, and working alongside the dedicated public servants of this institution, we will continue to strengthen Mexico’s Labor Spring through the defense of workers' rights,” Bolaños added.

With decades of experience in Mexican labor law, including his recent role as president magistrate of the Federal Conciliation and Arbitration Tribunal, Morales emphasized that his appointment coincides with the labor spring in Mexico.

“From this position, I will continue to participate in the consolidation of this process, which leads to better conditions for workers, a task linked to my career and commitment to the country,” said Morales

PROFEDET plays a key role in advocating for workers’ rights by providing of free legal services to employees and workers. This appointment comes during a significant period for Mexico’s labor landscape, with recent reforms aimed at improving wages, benefits, and working conditions.