Introduction to the Fondo de Seguridad (Ficoseg)
Los Cabos, BCS. In response to the “direct cost of insecurity for Sonorans exceeding 5,000 million pesos annually, along with human lives,” a group of citizens and businesses successfully institutionalized the Fondo de Seguridad (Ficoseg). This initiative aims to raise between 900 and 1,000 million pesos annually by increasing the Impuesto sobre Nómina (ISN) by one percentage point for companies with over 100 employees.
Background and Relevance
Marco Antonio Paz Pellat, from Grupo Koval, emphasized the importance of active participation rather than mere criticism during his speech at the Foro del Mar de Cortés. The Fondo de Seguridad was established in March of the same year, inspired by Chihuahua’s successful model of a Fideicomiso for Competitiveness and Urban Security with the business sector.
Transparent Governance Model
The Ficoseg operates under a transparent model where the government, led by the Secretaría de Hacienda y Crédito Público (SHCP), acts as the collection vehicle, while a Citizen Technical Committee oversees the process. This committee consists of 20 heads and 20 alternates from the private sector.
Business Sector’s Initiative
The business sector took the initiative to propose an increase in the ISN to 4% to the state legislature, respecting business freedom as the contribution design allows dissenting companies to opt-out. Over 100 businesses have exercised this option and can participate in the Technical Committee and project supervision.
Regional Representation
The committee represents various regions, including Nogales, San Luis Río Colorado, Caborca, Cajeme, Guaymas, Obregón, and Navojoa, encompassing diverse industries. The governor does not participate to maintain the committee’s autonomy.
Interinstitutional Coordination
Although the private sector holds the majority and leadership, other key figures participate to ensure interinstitutional coordination: the Secretary of Public Security, the State Attorney General, the President of the Supreme Court of Justice, and Secretaries of Economy and Tourism.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Fondo de Seguridad (Ficoseg)? It’s a fund established in Sonora to raise resources for security initiatives by increasing the Impuesto sobre Nómina (ISN) for large companies.
- Who governs the Ficoseg? A Citizen Technical Committee composed of private sector representatives oversees the fund, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- How is the business sector involved? They proposed the ISN increase, participate in the committee, and can opt-out if they disagree with the contribution design.
- What regions does the committee represent? The committee includes representatives from Nogales, San Luis Río Colorado, Caborca, Cajeme, Guaymas, Obregón, and Navojoa, covering various industries.
- Who ensures interinstitutional coordination? Key figures from different sectors, such as public security, justice, and economy, participate to maintain collaboration.
Transparency and Accountability Measures
To ensure transparency, no committee member can suggest or pressure for the financing of specific projects. All projects undergo a 100% external audit, in addition to regular governmental audits. Specialized companies evaluate social projects to guarantee proper use of funds.
Current Security Initiatives
The Ficoseg is implementing a technological intelligence strategy for secure transportation of people and goods from the US to Guaymas’ port. In Hermosillo, they’re improving security with new patrol cars, strengthening police forces, and installing intelligent surveillance systems. They also monitor violence against children, adolescents, and young adults.
