AMLO crime strategy to face major challenges in Mexico

Subject

New security strategies.

Significance

When he takes office on December 1, President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) will inherit responsibility for addressing some of Mexico’s worst-ever rates of violent crime. Rejecting the failed, militaristic security strategies of President Enrique Pena Nieto, AMLO has pledged a new approach based on long-term prevention, investment and a shake-up of the security forces. His recognition of the need for a change of direction is promising, but his plans are ambitious and lacking in detail, and his goals have already been revised down on multiple occasions.

Impacts

• Rapidly changing security challenges will test the effectiveness and viability of AMLO’s security approach.
• Morena’s control of both houses of Congress will be insufficient to guarantee security policies’ success.
• Limited financial resources may affect AMLO’s ability to improve overall security.