The Estrada Doctrine suggests that upon the establishment of
de facto governments in other countries, Mexico did not support giving
recognition because it is considered a degrading practice. By injuring the
sovereignty of other states, recognition puts them in a vulnerable position because their internal affairs can be judged by other governments, which assume a critical attitude when deciding about the legality and legitimacy of foreign governments. Mexico was itself harmed because of the practice, as it was difficult to obtain recognition of its
independence. The most extended use of the Estrada Doctrine was in the 1970s, when Mexico did not withdraw its recognition of any
South American government that was formed through a ''
coup d'état''. The only measure Mexico could use against such governments was withdrawing its
diplomatic mission. In other words, the Estrada Doctrine states that Mexico should not make positive or negative judgements about the governments, or changes in government, of other nations, because such an action would imply a breach to their
sovereignty. In addition, the doctrine is based on the universally-recognized principles of
self-determination and
non-intervention, which are considered essential for mutual respect and
cooperation amongst nations. ==Current status==