Introduction
Mexico’s foreign policy faces structural weaknesses and a low-profile presence on the international stage, according to experts consulted. The country has lost professionalism, resources, and global projection in recent years.
Expert Analysis: Jorge Schiavon
Jorge Schiavon, an academic from the International Studies Department at Iberoamericana University, identifies five key elements for a robust foreign policy, summarized as the “five P’s”: public policy, presidential priority, proactiveness, budget, and professionalism. He asserts that Mexico lacks all these elements.
- Absence of a strategic public policy: There is no clear, long-term foreign policy strategy.
- Lack of presidential priority: Foreign policy is not considered a top priority, with reactions often taking precedence over proactive measures.
- Insufficient resources and personnel: Mexico lacks adequate funding and staff to effectively carry out its foreign policy objectives.
- Loss of professionalism: The quality and experience of diplomats have declined, with many appointments lacking necessary knowledge and skills.
- Reactive approach: Mexico’s foreign policy has adopted a reactive stance instead of a proactive, long-term strategy, influenced by the international context marked by multilateralism’s crisis, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Middle East tensions, US-China rivalry, and the election of Donald Trump as US president.
Gabriela de la Paz’s Perspective
Gabriela de la Paz, a professor of International Relations at TEC de Monterrey, notes that Mexico maintains a discreet foreign policy with minimal changes in its interests and scant participation in international forums. Bilateral relations and tensions with Spain dominate over multilateral action.
- Limited resources for US consulates: Insufficient funding restricts assistance to Mexican nationals in the United States.
- Weak stance on international crises: Mexico has not taken firm positions on issues like the Gaza war or Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
- Regional leadership vacuum: If Mexico does not assume regional leadership, neighboring countries like Brazil or Argentina may fill the void. De la Paz emphasizes the need for a visible and strategic foreign ministry effort, along with monitoring relations with global powers to balance US influence.
Key Questions and Answers
- What are the main issues with Mexico’s foreign policy? Experts highlight a lack of strategic public policy, insufficient resources, and declining professionalism in diplomatic appointments.
- Why is Mexico’s foreign policy considered reactive rather than proactive? The international context, including multilateralism’s crisis and geopolitical tensions, has influenced Mexico to adopt a more reactive approach.
- What are the consequences of limited resources in US consulates? Insufficient funding restricts assistance to Mexican nationals residing in the United States.
- Why is regional leadership important for Mexico? If Mexico does not assume regional leadership, neighboring countries may fill the void, potentially shaping the region’s dynamics to Mexico’s detriment.
