La Protección jurídica de los seres sintientes una reconceptualización del sujeto de derecho en los sistemas jurídicos contemporáneos

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.29105/dj6.11-209

Keywords:

Sentient beings, animal rights, constitutionalism, subject of law, international jurisprudence, comparative law

Abstract

The legal recognition of sentient beings represents one of the most significant debates in the contemporary evolution of law. Traditionally, legal systems have considered animals as property or things subject to appropriation, subordinating their protection to human interests. However, advances in science, animal ethics, and legal criteria have driven a conceptual transformation aimed at recognizing animals as beings capable of experiencing pain, pleasure, and emotions, which demands a reconsideration of their legal status.

 

This article analyzes the philosophical, constitutional, and legal foundations that support the possibility of recognizing enhanced legal protection for sentient beings through a theoretical and comparative approach, examining the main doctrinal currents on animal sentience, the evolution of international regulations, and various judicial precedents that have challenged the traditional status of animals under the law. furthermore, this study analyzes landmark legal cases in which attempts have been made to recognize certain animals as subjects of law or holders of legally protected interests. It proposes a constitutional reform for Mexico that expressly recognizes animals as sentient beings, establishing state obligations of protection and a legal framework consistent with contemporary principles of interspecies justice.

 

Keywords: , animal rights, constitutionalism, subject of law, international jurisprudence, comparative law

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Published

2026-08-01

How to Cite

Lopez Trejo, M. A. (2026). La Protección jurídica de los seres sintientes una reconceptualización del sujeto de derecho en los sistemas jurídicos contemporáneos. Journal of Legal Challenges, 6(11). https://doi.org/10.29105/dj6.11-209

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