BRICS Meeting Controversy: Hardliners Criticize Government Decision

Web Editor

July 4, 2025

a man in a suit and tie with his arms crossed and his arms crossed, with a blue background, Fernando

Background on Key Figures and Relevance

The controversy surrounding the BRICS meeting decision involves hardliners from “la revolución de las conciencias” (the revolution of consciousness) who are protesting against the Mexican government’s choice to send Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente as an observer, instead of President Sheinbaum. The BRICS group consists of five countries: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Sheinbaum’s absence from the meeting has sparked debate about Mexico’s strategic focus.

Sheinbaum, an architect and former head of the Mexico City government, is known for her progressive policies and close ties to left-leaning political movements. Her absence from the BRICS meeting has raised questions about Mexico’s priorities in international relations. Meanwhile, Juan Ramón de la Fuente, the Foreign Minister, has a background in diplomacy and international law. His role as an observer at the BRICS meeting signifies Mexico’s continued engagement with global forums.

BRICS Meeting Context and Implications

The BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—meet regularly to discuss global issues, economic cooperation, and political strategies. This year’s meeting aims to strengthen collaboration among these emerging economies and address challenges such as climate change, global trade, and sustainable development.

The decision to send de la Fuente as an observer instead of Sheinbaum has sparked criticism from hardliners who argue that Mexico should prioritize integration with Asia, particularly China. They point out that the United States’ monthly average trade of $40 billion with Mexico surpasses China’s annual trade. This argument suggests that Mexico should reconsider its trade partnerships and focus more on China’s growing economic influence.

Judges’ Indemnization Concerns

In unrelated news, there is growing concern over the indemnization of federal judges facing dismissal due to the lopezobradorista Judicial Reform. The Mexican government initially offered compensation using funds from the Federal Judicial’s trusts, but there has been no clear timeline or method for payment.

Critics argue that the government’s silence on the matter and lack of action to ensure timely indemnization for affected judges reflects poorly on their commitment to fair treatment. This situation raises questions about the government’s responsibility towards its public servants and adherence to labor laws.

Morena’s “Democratic Transition” Narrative

Historians affiliated with Morena, the ruling party, are rewriting the narrative of Mexico’s democratic transition. They claim full credit for this historical period, despite evidence that diverse political groups collaborated to establish a legal framework for transition, alternance, and democratic progress in 1994.

The actions of the current lopezobradorista regime, however, hint at potential authoritarian tendencies. These concerns have led to speculation about the future of democracy in Mexico under this administration.

Notas en Remolino (Whirlwind Notes)

  • CNTE (National Teachers’ Union) sections in Mexico City are once again mobilizing with the same demands as before, raising suspicions about potential tensions within Morena.
  • Those concerned about the CURP (Unique Population Registry) biometric system can rest assured for now, as there is only a pilot plan in select Veracruz municipalities. Registration at local courts is necessary.
  • The accumulation of over 10 trillion pesos in workers’ retirement funds has garnered attention, surpassing Mexico’s 2025 federal budget.
  • “Acting bravely, even if it means risking regret, is better than regretting inaction,” a timeless quote by Giovanni Boccaccio offers food for thought as we reflect on our choices and commitments.

Key Questions and Answers:

  • What is the controversy about? Hardliners from “la revolución de las conciencias” are protesting the Mexican government’s decision to send Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente as an observer to the BRICS meeting instead of President Sheinbaum.
  • Why is this significant? The BRICS group comprises five major emerging economies, and the decision reflects Mexico’s strategic priorities in international relations.
  • What are the concerns regarding federal judges’ indemnization? The lopezobradorista Judicial Reform has led to dismissals, and the government’s delayed response on indemnization payments has raised concerns about fair treatment for public servants.
  • What is Morena’s revised narrative on the democratic transition? Historians affiliated with Morena claim full credit for Mexico’s democratic transition, despite evidence of collaboration among diverse political groups.
  • What are the Whirlwind Notes? These notes cover various topics, including CNTE mobilization, CURP biometric system updates, workers’ retirement funds accumulation, and a quote from Giovanni Boccaccio.