On August 20, 2025, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum officially appointed a former Televisa news anchor as the new Ambassador to Italy, sparking widespread debate across social media and diplomatic circles. The appointee, who is openly gay, has no formal diplomatic training or prior experience in foreign service, leading thousands of users to question the decision’s merit and transparency.
The announcement follows the departure of Carlos García de Alba, whose term as ambassador ended on August 22, 2025, after serving since 2019. The new ambassador’s identity has not yet appeared in official diplomatic registries, but the appointment has already ignited a firestorm online. Critics argue that the selection was politically motivated and based on media visibility rather than qualifications.
Social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook have been flooded with posts under hashtags such as #EmbajadorSinMérito and #DiplomaciaNoEsShow, with many users expressing concern over the lack of diplomatic expertise. Others have defended the appointment, citing the individual’s communication skills and potential to represent Mexico’s diversity abroad.
Supporters of Sheinbaum argue that the move reflects a broader effort to modernize Mexico’s diplomatic corps and challenge traditional norms. However, opposition figures and foreign policy analysts warn that such appointments risk undermining Mexico’s credibility in international relations.
The controversy underscores a growing tension between political symbolism and institutional professionalism. As the new ambassador prepares to assume duties in Rome, the debate continues over what qualifications should define Mexico’s representatives on the global stage. Whether this appointment proves successful or problematic remains to be seen—but it has undeniably placed Mexico’s foreign policy choices under a magnifying glass.
Source: El Financiero
