The Mexican 3rd: Article 16

By Jared Paul Miller, Society President

"During peacetime, no member of the Army can be quartered in a private house against the owner's will nor impose any requirements. During a war, soldiers can demand lodging, baggage, food and other requirements in the terms set forth by the applicable martial law." - Article 16 of the 1917 Constitution of the United Mexican States

A desire to keep one's home free of the unauthorized quartering of soldiers is not a uniquely American want. America's sister republic to the south, Mexico, enshrined a similar right in Article 16 of the 1917 Mexican Constitution. While Article 16 is much broader then the 3rd Amendment, Article 16 is made up of several clauses that also regulates evidence collection, provides a broad right to privacy, and prevents unjust imprisonment, the Mexican people also sought to prevent the quartering of soldiers in peacetime. The Society has been unable to find any breaches of the Article 16 Quartering clause. The Society will continue to monitor the situation to ensure this remains true in the future. The Society also urges the people of the world to follow the lead of the Mexican people and include a prohibition on quartering in their own constitutions.