Estrada Doctrine

The Estrada Doctrine is Mexico's core foreign policy guideline since 1930; according to it, states should not formally announce the diplomatic recognition of foreign governments, as that could be perceived as a judgment on the legitimacy of said government, and such an action would imply a breach of state sovereignty. The policy is based on the principles of non-intervention, peaceful resolution of disputes and self-determination of all nations. In line with the Estrada doctrine, Mexico to this day – and in contrast with most other states – does not issue formal declarations of diplomatic recognition of new states or governments.

The doctrine’s name derives from Genaro Estrada, Secretary of Foreign Affairs during the presidency of Pascual Ortiz Rubio (1930–1932).