Security and Justice: A Complex Outlook in Mexico

Security and justice in Mexico continue to be a multifaceted field of challenges, where the integrity of the judicial system and the persistence of organized and everyday crime create a complex landscape that demands in-depth attention and tailored strategies.

Mexico's security and justice system is under intense scrutiny, especially following warnings from the Organization of American States (OAS) regarding the recent judicial election. The OAS has noted that this process "does not guarantee the autonomy or independence of the judiciary." The OAS report, published on June 6, 2025, strongly asserts that the election does not ensure the technical solvency of those elected and that a majority of the candidates with the most votes were nominated by the executive branch. This situation, coupled with extremely low voter turnout (more than 85% abstention), undermines the legitimacy of the process.

The perceived lack of independence in the judiciary could have a domino effect on the country's security. If judges are seen as politically aligned rather than impartial, their decisions could be questioned, potentially eroding public confidence in the justice system. This erosion of trust, in turn, could encourage criminal elements who perceive a weakened judiciary, thus compromising effective law enforcement and the "zero impunity" strategy outlined in the National Development Plan.

At the same time, the country faces persistent and diversified violence. In Nuevo León, 181 negligent homicides due to traffic accidents were reported in the first four months of 2025, a figure that reflects a constant challenge to road safety. An alarming trend is the increase in virtual kidnappings targeting students, with 40 cases recorded at the University of Guadalajara (UdeG) in 2025. These crimes, which are based on deception and psychological manipulation through digital connectivity, demonstrate an adaptation of criminal tactics.

Another incident that illustrates the sophistication of criminal activity is the collapse of a tunnel structure, allegedly used for fuel theft, in Otumba, which left six people dead. These types of discoveries, along with the increase in virtual kidnappings, demonstrate that criminal groups are not static; they adapt to technological advances and economic opportunities. This diversification of criminal activities poses a greater challenge for law enforcement, which requires specialized units and more agile intelligence, rather than relying solely on traditional policing methods.

The combination of a challenged judicial system and constantly evolving crime demands a more agile and technologically informed national security strategy. The fight against impunity and the protection of citizens depend on the state's ability to guarantee a truly independent judiciary and to adapt quickly to new forms of crime.

"The Mission does not recommend that this model of selecting judges be replicated in other countries in the region." — OAS Report, June 6, 2025

The current situation demands a comprehensive response that not only strengthens the operational capabilities of the security forces but also restores public confidence in justice institutions, crucial elements for the country's stability and development.