Source: Mexican cartel clashes fuel worries in lead up to FIFA World Cup | AP News
On February 25th, the Mexican government forces killed the powerful cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, head of Jalisco New Generation Cartel. The military operation was carried out in Tapalpa, Jalisco. In response to his death, cartel members have taken to the streets to violently avenge his death. This has included creating roadblocks, immobilizing transportation, burning vehicles and clashes with security forces. This violence is rapidly spreading across Mexico. The unrest has raised major concerns about security, tourism, and the broader struggle against organized crime in the country. As a result, many tourists are stuck in their resorts, with no clear way out. It is unclear when this tension will subside, and with the upcoming FIFA World Cup, much is uncertain.
The situation in Mexico connects the core themes of IB global politics. These themes include Power, Sovereignty, Conflict, and Legitimacy. The concept of power is involved as it is a state vs. non state conflict. The Mexican government’s operation against the cartels illustrates how states can exercise coercive power to confront threats to their national sovereignty. Mexico’s military action shows a state asserting authority within its borders. While at the same time, cartel violence challenges this power and sovereignty as they expose the limits to government control. In addition, the successful killing of a dominant cartel leader can boost the legitimacy of the Mexican government among its citizens and international allies.
The broader implications of this clash between state and non-state actors are significant. Domestically, even with El Mencho’s death, cartel structures may adapt or fragment, resulting in even more violence as factions fight for dominance. This can lead to even more security instability as well as decayed public trust. Globally, this could impact the security of the region. With the U.S as a close neighbor, the superpower will likely be affected by the cartel’s drug production and trafficking networks. Additionally, fears of violence may deter tourism, impacting that sector of the Mexican economy and international image.