One of the most serious consequences of organized crime is forced migration. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has advocated for a different approach than the traditional one to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of popular will and the need to attack the root causes of migration, along with his “hugs, not bullets” in the face of the crime. However, the effectiveness of these strategies has clearly failed, although the President insists with his “other data”, organized crime has strengthened, insecurity is increasing, and with it Mexican emigration, which had already decreased to historic levels. in the previous six-year term.
AMLO has reiterated on numerous occasions that “the people rule,” and has used popular consultations as a tool to legitimize significant decisions, such as the cancellation of the NAIM Airport in Texcoco in favor of the construction of the Felipe Ángeles International Airport. This method of direct consultation reflects, according to AMLO, an attempt to democratize major decisions, although not without controversy regarding its methodology and representativeness.
The migration phenomenon of Mexicans to the United States, exacerbated by violence, insecurity and lack of economic opportunities, added to the flow of Central Americans (many fleeing the same), continues to be one of the main concerns. López Obrador maintains that migration is a forced act, not a voluntary choice, and that to mitigate it it is essential to eliminate its underlying causes. Despite these statements, the policies implemented so far have not only failed to stop the migratory flow or contain the expansion of organized crime, which continues to impose a regime of terror in several regions of the country.
The current administration has been criticized for its reluctance to accept outside help to combat organized crime, especially that offered by the US. López Obrador has maintained a stance of self-sufficiency, prioritizing national sovereignty over international collaboration on security matters, even when it involves intelligence, technology transfer or otherwise. This decision has generated a debate about whether this strategy is the most effective to protect citizens and guarantee their well-being.
Against this backdrop, a proposal that could reconcile national sovereignty with the prevailing need to improve security and manage migration more effectively is the holding of a specific popular consultation in the regions most affected by violence and forced displacement. This consultation would not only address the possibility of accepting international aid to combat organized crime, but would also serve as a thermometer of popular sentiment regarding current security policies.
A consultation has several advantages. First, it would reaffirm López Obrador’s commitment to participatory democracy, aligning with his philosophy that “the people rule.” Second, it would provide a clear and legitimate mandate for international security collaboration, if the majority so decided. Third, it would send a powerful message to criminal groups, demonstrating the unity and resolve of the Mexican people and government in the face of adversity.
Mexico finds itself at a critical crossroads. Violence and forced migration demand innovative and bold responses. A popular consultation on the acceptance of international aid to combat organized crime could be a step forward, as long as it is carried out with transparency, inclusiveness and a firm commitment to sovereignty and national well-being. This could be the time for Mexico to explore new avenues to ensure the peace and security its people deserve. Without decisive steps, there are no good omens for the incoming six-year term.
