Reflections on Mexico's Current Politics and Economic Stability

I have been a university professor, and in my tenure, I have observed and reflected on the dynamics of Mexican politics and the economic conditions in the country. Initially, under the PRI party rule, we witnessed a relatively stable and controlled environment. However, the last decade has seen a significant shift in terms of politics, economics, and social conditions. In this article, I aim to provide an insight into the current status of Mexico's political landscape and highlight the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The Political Climate in Modern Mexico

On the question of politics, Mexico's current political reality is quite interesting. When I had the opportunity to observe the political environment of Mexico from a distance in the early days of my teaching career, the country was under the strict control of one-party rule, the PRI (Partido Revolucionario Institucional). The president held absolute power over the legislative and judicial bodies, and the media was closely monitored by what was called 'Gobernacion,' which played the role of the US State Department. Even under such a totalitarian system, a remarkable student movement for freedom and democracy emerged in 1968, facing tremendous consequences.

The Economic Challenges and Progress

Mexico faced significant economic challenges in the late 70s and 80s, but it managed to move forward despite these hardships. There is no denying that, over the years, the country has witnessed economic growth, albeit with an increasing disparity in wealth distribution. This has led to a rich elite in central and northern Mexico, a relatively well-to-do middle class, and a majority living in poverty in the southern states. This economic inequality has been accompanied by a surge in corruption over the past decade, which is a major concern for both citizens and foreign investors.

The 2018 Election and the AMLO Presidency

After an 18-year campaign, Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) was elected President, promising social equality and the end of corruption. While initial optimism was high, some concerns have emerged regarding the transition of power. In six months, the administration enacted reforms that would have taken six years under the previous government. Despite these rapid changes, the constitution guarantees an independent judiciary and freedom of speech, which remain intact. However, the question now is whether this will result in another 70 years of a single-party regime with a Cuban-Venezuelan influence.

Personal Reflections on the Mexican Government

From a personal standpoint, I believe that the Mexican government offers its citizens more than many other countries. For example, as someone who has experienced the impact of Mexican healthcare systems firsthand, I can say that the government has played a crucial role in providing essential services. One such service is the daycare system, which is funded by tax contributions and monitored by the government to ensure quality care. Additionally, when I suffered a severe industrial accident, the quality of care and therapy provided by the Mexican government was truly commendable, allowing me to walk without disabilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the current political and economic landscape of Mexico is a complex interplay of past and present factors. While challenges such as corruption and economic inequality remain, the government has made significant strides in providing essential services to its citizens. As someone who has witnessed these changes over the years, I believe that it is premature to pass a definitive judgment on the future of Mexican politics. We must continue to observe and participate in the evolution of the country to ensure a better future for all its citizens.

Keywords: Mexico politics, economic stability, corruption