The Political Landscape and Morena’s Dominance
Upon winning the presidency, Andrés Manuel López Obrador swiftly began dismantling Mexico’s institutional framework, achieving such success that in five years he transformed the political regime. Morena, his party, is poised to maintain power for at least half a century, prioritizing continuity.
While elections grant the right to consolidate Morena’s project legislatively, ensuring their dominance for an extended period, one must question whether this benefits Mexico. The narrowing of political spaces and tolerance for intolerance in the name of party cohesion raises concerns about inclusivity.
Geography as Destiny: Navigating the Unpredictable US-Mexico Relationship
Predicting the future actions of Donald Trump’s administration proves challenging, as his flexibility mirrors the elusive Chimoltrufia. On one hand, Trump ordered ICE to deport one million migrants annually, ensuring more abuses against Mexicans. On the other hand, he proposed a program allowing undocumented migrants to work in agriculture and entertainment industries.
As the renowned journal “Foreign Affairs” reminds us, geography plays a significant role in shaping destinies. Mexico must exercise patience and maintain a cool head when dealing with the unpredictable United States.
Weakening the Right to Amparo: A Step Backward for Citizen Protection
The right to amparo, proclaimed 156 years ago, has long served as a robust defense mechanism for citizens against authorities. However, López Obrador’s administration has enacted measures that restrict this right, with further legislative changes on the horizon, according to legal experts.
During a brief democratic spring, the right to amparo expanded, enabling beneficiaries of favorable Supreme Court rulings to extend their protections to those in similar situations but lacking resources for constitutional appeals.
Whirlpool of Notes: A Glance at Current Affairs
- The UN estimates that Mexican drug cartels earn $12 billion annually from drug trafficking, while US-based criminal gangs reap $140 billion. This stark disparity highlights the asymmetry in the drug trade.
- Federal government agencies continue to suffer from austerity-induced budget cuts. The recent controversy surrounding alleged money laundering in three Mexican banks and US threats exposed the reduced budget of the Financial Intelligence Unit.
- Despite expectations, Trump’s proposed 1% tax on remittances falls short of a substantial impact on Mexico’s economy.
- Historian Henry Brooks Adams once defined politics as “not taking facts into account.” This observation remains relevant as we navigate the complexities of contemporary Mexican politics.
