Introduction
Michoacán, a state known for its rich agricultural production including avocados, lemons, and berries, faces a stark contradiction. Despite being one of Mexico’s most productive states, it is also among the most violent. The fruits produced in Michoacán reach global markets, yet the local communities where they are grown grapple with poverty, extortion, and fear on a daily basis. In this context, the Plan Michoacán por la Paz y la Justicia, announced by President Claudia Sheinbaum, represents a crucial step towards restoring governance and hope to a region long neglected.
Background and Context
The announcement of the plan comes in the wake of the assassination of Uruapan’s mayor, Carlos Manzo, highlighting the risks faced by local authorities and the fragility of state institutions. The federal response aims to break away from the failed military model by linking security with justice and development.
The Plan’s Three Pillars
The plan is built on three main pillars:
- Security and Justice: This pillar includes joint units of the National Guard, the State Security Commission (SSPC), and the state attorney general’s office. It also involves a high-impact prosecution unit, biweekly security meetings, and an alert system for mayors.
- Economic Development with Justice: This pillar focuses on fair wages, rural infrastructure, and the establishment of Polos de Desarrollo Económico (Podecobi).
- Education and Culture for Peace: This pillar emphasizes schools, scholarships, community sports, and a secure network of cultural centers.
The plan’s spirit is clear: security cannot be sustained through war but rather through justice, development, and respect for life. President Sheinbaum aims to build the plan with social participation, integrating indigenous peoples, women, youth, authorities, victims, and families.
Challenges and Expectations
The situation is dire. In the first quarter of 2025, there were 474 intentional homicides, a 17% decrease from 2024. However, 45% of Michoacán’s population lives in poverty, and informal employment reaches 63%. The agricultural economy sustains the state, generating $32 billion from avocado production in 2024 and over $3.5 billion in exports. Yet, extortion can consume up to 40% of local incomes. Remittances from the U.S. have dropped by 4% this year, and returnees face unemployment. Violence, poverty, and migration create a vicious cycle that the plan seeks to disrupt.
Key Components of the Plan
While the official statement does not detail every aspect, it is reasonable to assume that the plan includes measurable goals, collaboration between the Tax Administration Service (SAT), the Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF), and the Federal Attorney General’s Office to target criminal finances. The plan may also involve producers and migrants in Podecobi initiatives, along with protective measures for mayors and officials in high-risk municipalities. Ensuring continuity of cultural and sports centers, as well as transparency in progress, can help rebuild public trust.
Conclusion
Michoacán requires peace, but more importantly, justice and trust. The plan is welcome; now, it’s up to the government, businesses, and society to make it work.
