Recent news has been abuzz with the term "muere en reforma," a Spanish phrase that's been making rounds in both Spanish and global media.Translated to English, it means "dies in reform," but it's not referring to a fictional story or a philosophical concept. Instead, it's a stark reality that's been unfolding in Mexico, specifically in the aftermath of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's (AMLO) administrative reforms.
Since AMLO took office in 2018, there's been a considerable increase in murders in Mexico, with 2020 setting a new record. The phrase "muere en reforma" has thus become a grim hashtag, a chilling echo of the country's skyrocketing homicide rate amidst the ongoing reforms. But what's causing this alarming trend, and what does it mean for Mexico's future?
AMLO's Reforms and the Surge in Homicides
Under AMLO's administration, numerous reforms have been introduced, aiming to combat corruption, boost the economy, and improve public services. However, some experts argue that these reforms, particularly those in the security sector, may have inadvertently contributed to the escalating violence.
One such reform was the dismantling of the old Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) security model and the creation of a new National Guard. While the intention was to streamline security forces and combat drug trafficking, the transition has been chaotic, leaving some regions vulnerable to criminal organizations.
Impact on Cartels and Gangs
Mexico's drug cartels and gangs have been exploiting the vacuum left by the security force reorganization. With weakened state presence, criminal groups have been able to extend their territorial control, leading to increased territorial disputes and bloody turf wars. The result? A surge in homicides, with innocent civilians often caught in the crossfire.
For instance, the cartel violence in states like Sinaloa, Chihuahua, and Guanajuato has been particularly brutal, with grisly murders and public beheadings becoming all too common. The phrase "muere en reforma" serves as a grim reminder of the human cost of these conflicts.
Economic Reforms and their Role
It's not just security reforms drawing attention. Critics argue that AMLO's economic policies may also be inadvertently fuelling violence. For example, his decision to cancel the construction of the new Mexico City airport, a major infrastructure project, led to thousands of job losses and a boost in unemployment. This, in turn, has provided recruiting grounds for criminal gangs.
Moreover, AMLO's anti-business rhetoric and policies have deterred foreign investment, further straining the Mexican economy. While intended to protect local businesses, these policies could be pushing more people into poverty, making them vulnerable to recruitment by criminal organizations.
The Covid-19 Factor
Covid-19 has added another layer of complexity to Mexico's violence issue. Lockdowns and social distancing measures have disrupted criminal groups' operations, leading many to adapt their strategies. However, the economic impact of the pandemic has also pushed more people into poverty, potentially driving up recruitment for criminal organizations.
Furthermore, the pandemic has overwhelmed healthcare services, diverting resources from other public health issues, including gang violence. This has made it even harder for authorities to combat the growing violence and support victims of crime.
Community Policing and a New Approach
There are tentative signs of improvement, however. Some communities are adopting a community policing model, where local residents work closely with law enforcement to combat crime. This approach has shown promise in reducing violence in some areas, such as the city of Guanajuato.
AMLO's administration is also taking steps to refine its security strategy, recognizing the importance of a well-structured and effectively coordinated security force. The National Guard, after initial teething problems, is now being deployed more strategically and having some success in containing criminal violence.
In conclusion, the phrase "muere en reforma" is a stark reminder of the human cost of Mexico's ongoing reforms. While AMLO's policies aim to improve lives, the transition has been challenging, leading to a surge in violence. However, with a refined security strategy and a focus on community policing, there's hope that Mexico can turn the tide on its escalating homicide rate. The path to safer streets won't be easy, but strong policy, robust law enforcement, and community engagement will be crucial.