Herber Lopez, who is the director of an online news site, Noticias Web, was fatally shot. This makes him the fifth journalist in Mexico to be murdered this year. Mexico is ranked one of the deadliest places for journalists. In addition to the five murdered journalists, two survived attacks, and many have received threats. There are organizations to protect journalists such as the Committee to Protect Journalists, which aim to raise awareness about the situation.United States Senators Tim Kaine and Marco Rubio urged Mexico to do more to protect journalists and they criticized the Mexican president for lashing out against critics in the media.
We are already putting sanctions on Mexico by not buying their avocados after a U.S. plant safety inspector in Mexico received a threat. We might have to take measures similar to this, because journalists are obviously being targeted. The president criticizes and belittles journalists for criticizing his administration. Over 50 journalists have been killed since Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador took office in December 2018. It is evident that this has created more violence towards journalists with his constant disrespect to the press. They often do not release information on some of the murderers or charge the murderers in attempt to bring justice.
Sanctions are the way a country punishes another for bad behavior. If the killing of journalists continues, the U.S. may have to impose some sanctions on Mexico. The Mexican president has created a dangerous situation that seems to be getting worse. Targeting journalists are human rights violations, and as long as they go unpunished, or even encouraged, more journalists will be killed. Since Mexico is our neighboring country, the U.S. will want to make sure that the president does not continue to suppress other opinions, as it may lead to unjust and corrupt elections or laws.