Mexico has been actively addressing the challenges posed by organized crime, particularly in the wake of political tensions with the MAGA movement in the United States. Under the leadership of President Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico has intensified efforts to curb cartel violence and criminal networks.
Sheinbaum, who took office in October 2024, has implemented data-driven policing strategies that previously helped reduce crime in Mexico City. Now, she is applying similar methods nationwide to combat entrenched criminal organizations. One of her administration’s key focuses has been the Sinaloa Cartel, where Mexican troops have worked to contain internal conflicts between rival factions.
The MAGA movement in the U.S. has pushed for more aggressive measures against Mexican cartels, including calls for military intervention. Some American politicians have advocated for labeling cartels as terrorist organizations, which could lead to direct U.S. action against them. Mexico, however, has resisted such measures, emphasizing sovereignty and the need for bilateral cooperation rather than unilateral intervention.
Efforts to secure the U.S.-Mexico border have also intensified. Mexican authorities have tightened security, making it more difficult for criminal organizations to smuggle fentanyl and other illicit substances across the border. This has led to increased tensions between Mexican officials and figures within the MAGA movement, who argue that Mexico should do more to prevent drug trafficking.
Despite these challenges, Mexico continues to refine its approach to organized crime, balancing enforcement with social programs aimed at addressing the root causes of violence. The battle against cartels remains complex, but Sheinbaum’s administration is determined to implement strategies that prioritize stability and security while maintaining diplomatic relations with the U.S..
Source: The Economist
