A Legacy of Corruption and Politicization: Mexico's Police Problem

Abstract

Abstract: When former President Calderón declared war on the cartels in 2006, Mexico was plunged into insecurity, and the government has been trying to reassert control of the security situation ever since. While the situation has improved, the fight will not be over until the police are in control of the streets. Historical and structural problems have plagued the police, forcing the military to play a central role in internal security operations. While a number of positive reforms have been implemented in recent years, there is still much work to do. This paper will examine some of these past reforms and their effects. Current tactics as well as potential reforms and strategies for the future will also be discussed, with a focus on the police reassuming the central role in internal security.