Glossary

15.4 Contemporary Political Landscape

5 min read•july 30, 2024

Mexico's political landscape has evolved significantly, moving from a one-party system to a more competitive multi-party democracy. The PRI's long dominance ended in 2000, paving the way for greater political diversity and coalition-building among parties.

This shift has impacted federal-state relations, with governors gaining more influence and social movements playing a larger role in shaping policy. Reform efforts have addressed issues like corruption and economic liberalization, but challenges remain in areas such as poverty and inequality.

Political Parties in Mexico

Major Parties and Their Ideologies

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  • The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) is a centrist party that dominated Mexican politics for over 70 years emphasizes social welfare and economic nationalism
  • The National Action Party (PAN), founded in 1939, is a center-right party that advocates for free-market policies, limited government intervention, and conservative social values
  • The Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), established in 1989, is a center-left party that promotes social democracy, economic justice, and human rights
  • Smaller parties, such as the Labor Party (PT) and the Green Ecological Party of Mexico (PVEM), have formed alliances with the larger parties to gain representation in the legislature

Dynamics of Party Competition

  • The PRI's long-standing dominance has been challenged by the PAN and PRD since the 1980s, leading to a more competitive multi-party system
  • Coalition-building and alliances among parties have become increasingly common, particularly in gubernatorial and local elections
  • The 2000 presidential election marked the first time the PRI lost power at the national level, with the PAN's winning the presidency
  • The 2018 presidential election saw the victory of , representing the left-wing National Regeneration Movement (Morena), signaling a shift in the political landscape
  • The fragmentation of the party system has led to a greater emphasis on individual candidates and personality-driven politics

Federal-State Relations in Mexico

Division of Power and Tensions

  • Mexico has a federal system of government, with power divided between the national government and 31 states plus Mexico City
  • The relationship between the federal government and states is often characterized by tension, particularly regarding the distribution of resources and the balance of power
  • The federal government has attempted to assert greater control over states through fiscal centralization and the use of conditional transfers (earmarked funds for specific projects or programs)
  • Interstate cooperation and regional alliances among governors have emerged as a counterbalance to federal power, such as the Conference of Governors (Conago)

Role of Governors in State Politics

  • Governors, elected to six-year terms, play a significant role in state-level politics and policy implementation
  • Governors have considerable influence over local political machines, patronage networks, and the allocation of state resources
  • Gubernatorial elections are often seen as a barometer of national political trends and a testing ground for future presidential candidates
  • Governors have been involved in high-profile controversies, such as corruption scandals (Javier Duarte in Veracruz) and human rights abuses (Ulises Ruiz in Oaxaca)
  • The relationship between governors and the federal government can vary depending on party affiliation and personal ties

Social Movements' Influence in Mexico

Indigenous Rights and Poverty

  • The in 1994 brought indigenous rights and poverty to the forefront of the national agenda, leading to negotiations and the
  • Indigenous communities have continued to mobilize for land rights, cultural autonomy, and access to basic services (education, healthcare)
  • The has served as a platform for indigenous peoples to articulate their demands and coordinate actions

Democratic Reforms and Transparency

  • The "" student movement in 2012 protested media bias and called for greater democracy and transparency, particularly in the electoral process
  • Civil society organizations have played a key role in promoting electoral reforms, such as the creation of the and the
  • Transparency laws and the creation of the National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information, and Personal Data Protection (INAI) have strengthened the right to information and government accountability

Gender Equality and Women's Rights

  • Women's rights organizations have campaigned for gender equality, reproductive rights, and action against femicides (gender-based killings)
  • The "" (Not One Less) movement has raised awareness about violence against women and demanded government action
  • Reforms to the General Law on Women's Access to a Life Free of Violence (2007) and the General Law on Equality between Women and Men (2006) have sought to address gender discrimination and promote equal opportunities

Environmental Activism

  • Environmental groups have advocated for sustainable development, conservation, and opposition to extractive industries (mining, logging)
  • The "" (Water for All) movement has protested against water privatization and demanded access to clean water as a human right
  • Indigenous communities have mobilized against megaprojects, such as the Cerro de Oro dam in Oaxaca and the Maya Train in the Yucatan Peninsula, citing environmental and cultural concerns

Reform Prospects in Mexico

Achievements and Challenges

  • Mexico has undergone significant political and economic reforms since the 1980s, including the transition to multi-party democracy and the liberalization of the economy
  • The 2012 "" agreement between the major political parties led to reforms in education, telecommunications, energy, and fiscal policy
  • The opened the oil and gas sector to private investment, aiming to boost production and economic growth
  • Anti-corruption reforms, such as the creation of the in 2016, have sought to address endemic graft and impunity
  • Challenges to further reforms include entrenched interests, institutional resistance, and public skepticism about the benefits of past reforms

Future Priorities and Sustainability

  • The success of future reforms will depend on political will, effective implementation, and the ability to balance competing interests and demands
  • Addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and insecurity will be critical for the long-term sustainability of Mexico's political and economic system
  • Strengthening the rule of law, judicial independence, and human rights protection will be essential for consolidating democratic gains
  • Promoting economic diversification, regional development, and investment in education and innovation will be key for enhancing competitiveness and inclusive growth
  • Deepening social policies, such as conditional cash transfer programs () and universal healthcare coverage (), can help reduce poverty and improve living standards
  • Engaging civil society, fostering public participation, and building trust in institutions will be crucial for the legitimacy and effectiveness of future reforms

Key Terms to Review (22)

2014 energy reform: The 2014 energy reform in Mexico was a comprehensive set of changes aimed at liberalizing the energy sector, allowing private investment and competition in oil, gas, and electricity markets. This reform was significant because it aimed to transform a previously state-dominated industry, particularly focusing on attracting foreign investment to increase production and efficiency in the energy sector, which had been struggling for decades.
Agua para todos: Agua para todos, translating to 'water for all,' refers to a significant social policy initiative aimed at ensuring universal access to clean drinking water and sanitation in Latin America. This initiative underscores the critical importance of water as a basic human right and addresses the challenges posed by water scarcity and inequitable distribution, especially in marginalized communities. The program seeks to enhance water management, infrastructure development, and community engagement, aligning with broader goals of social equity and sustainability.
Andrés Manuel López Obrador: Andrés Manuel López Obrador, often referred to as AMLO, is a prominent Mexican politician who has served as the President of Mexico since December 2018. He is known for his focus on anti-corruption, social programs, and an emphasis on citizen security, all while navigating the complex political landscape and addressing emerging ideological trends in Latin America.
Federal Electoral Institute (IFE): The Federal Electoral Institute (IFE) was an autonomous public organization in Mexico responsible for organizing federal elections, ensuring transparency, and upholding the electoral rights of citizens. Established in 1990, the IFE aimed to create a more democratic political landscape by promoting fair elections and regulating the political parties, thereby significantly impacting the contemporary political dynamics in Mexico.
Federal Electoral Tribunal (TEPJF): The Federal Electoral Tribunal (TEPJF) is an autonomous judicial body in Mexico responsible for overseeing federal elections and ensuring their legality and transparency. It plays a crucial role in the contemporary political landscape by adjudicating electoral disputes, validating election results, and protecting electoral rights, thereby enhancing the integrity of the democratic process in the country.
INAI (National Institute for Transparency, Access to Information, and Personal Data Protection): INAI is an autonomous government body in Mexico responsible for promoting transparency, safeguarding the right to access public information, and ensuring the protection of personal data. It plays a crucial role in enhancing democratic governance by holding public institutions accountable and fostering a culture of transparency among government entities.
Morena (National Regeneration Movement): Morena, or the National Regeneration Movement, is a political party in Mexico founded by Andrés Manuel López Obrador in 2014. The party aims to promote social justice, combat corruption, and reduce inequality while advocating for a new approach to governance and public policy in Mexico's contemporary political landscape.
National anti-corruption system: A national anti-corruption system is a framework established by a government to prevent, detect, and address corruption within public institutions and processes. This system typically involves various laws, agencies, and mechanisms designed to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance. It connects to the contemporary political landscape by reflecting the ongoing struggles against corruption in many countries, particularly in Latin America, where systemic corruption poses significant challenges to democracy and governance.
National Indigenous Congress (CNI): The National Indigenous Congress (CNI) is a grassroots organization in Mexico that represents the interests and rights of indigenous communities across the country. Formed in 1996, the CNI aims to provide a unified voice for indigenous peoples, advocating for land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice while challenging governmental policies that threaten their autonomy and way of life. The CNI plays a significant role in the contemporary political landscape of Mexico by influencing discussions on indigenous rights and promoting alternative political models based on indigenous governance.
Ni una menos: 'Ni una menos' translates to 'not one less' and is a feminist movement that originated in Argentina, advocating against gender-based violence and femicide. This powerful slogan has mobilized countless women across Latin America, linking local struggles with broader issues of women's rights, and challenging societal norms around gender violence, representation, and political accountability.
Oportunidades: In the context of Latin American politics, 'oportunidades' refers to the various programs and initiatives aimed at improving access to education and healthcare, as well as promoting social welfare. These opportunities are crucial for addressing systemic inequalities and empowering marginalized populations by enhancing their quality of life and fostering economic mobility. The effectiveness of these initiatives can significantly influence the political landscape and social dynamics within the region.
Pacto por méxico: Pacto por México is a political agreement established in Mexico in 2012 aimed at promoting reforms to address pressing issues like education, energy, and taxation. This pact was signed by major political parties, including the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), the National Action Party (PAN), and the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD), highlighting a rare moment of cooperation among historically rival parties to facilitate legislative changes for national progress.
PAN (National Action Party): The National Action Party (PAN) is a major political party in Mexico, founded in 1939, known for its advocacy of free-market policies and its commitment to democratic governance. It emerged as a significant force in the late 20th century, playing a crucial role in challenging the long-standing dominance of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) and reshaping the political landscape of Mexico.
Prd (Party of the Democratic Revolution): The Party of the Democratic Revolution (prd) is a leftist political party in Mexico, founded in 1989. It emerged from the remnants of the Mexican Communist Party and the dissident faction of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (pri), aiming to promote democracy, social justice, and progressive policies in response to the political landscape of the country during the late 20th century.
PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party): The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) is a Mexican political party that dominated the country's political landscape for much of the 20th century, known for its role in establishing a one-party system. Founded in 1929, the PRI implemented policies that promoted economic growth and social reform while often resorting to authoritarian practices to maintain control over political power.
PT (Labor Party): The PT, or Partido dos Trabalhadores, is a major political party in Brazil that was founded in 1980, primarily representing the interests of the working class and advocating for social justice and labor rights. The party emerged from a coalition of trade unions, leftist groups, and social movements, gaining prominence as a voice for marginalized populations in Brazil's contemporary political landscape.
PVEM (Green Ecological Party of Mexico): The PVEM, or Green Ecological Party of Mexico, is a political party that focuses on environmental issues and sustainable development. Founded in 1993, it aims to promote ecological awareness and influence public policy to create a greener Mexico. The party has navigated complex political landscapes, often forming alliances with larger parties to increase its influence, while advocating for ecological initiatives and social justice.
San Andrés Accords: The San Andrés Accords are a set of agreements signed in 1996 between the Mexican government and the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) aimed at addressing indigenous rights and social justice in Mexico. These accords emerged from a conflict that began with the Zapatista uprising in Chiapas, reflecting broader issues of inequality and governance within the country.
Seguro Popular: Seguro Popular is a public health insurance program in Mexico that was established to provide health coverage to the uninsured population, particularly those in lower-income groups. It aims to increase access to healthcare services and reduce the financial burden on families facing medical expenses, playing a vital role in the contemporary political landscape regarding healthcare reform and social equity.
Vicente Fox: Vicente Fox was the 26th President of Mexico, serving from 2000 to 2006. He is known for being the first president elected from a party other than the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) in over 70 years, symbolizing a significant political transition in Mexico's history.
Yo soy 132: Yo soy 132 is a student-led movement that emerged in Mexico in 2012, primarily in response to perceived media manipulation and bias during the presidential elections. It began when a group of students protested against the then-candidate Enrique Peña Nieto's controversial policies and actions, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in Mexican politics and media. This movement connected with broader concerns about democracy, the role of social media in political activism, and youth engagement in contemporary political discourse.
Zapatista Uprising: The Zapatista Uprising refers to the armed rebellion initiated by the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) in Chiapas, Mexico, on January 1, 1994. This event marked a significant challenge to the Mexican government, aiming to address issues such as indigenous rights, land reform, and social justice, while also highlighting broader concerns related to neoliberal policies and globalization.
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