The Center for Economic Studies of the Private Sector (CEESP) highlighted public safety as a significant challenge for economic growth and private investment in Mexico.
The weekly report from the CEESP underscored the urgency of addressing these issues, noting how they can affect Mexico’s economic growth potential.
The report elaborated on the different aspects of public safety that need improvement, citing a rise in violence and organized crime, an inefficient justice system, and issues with police professionalization.
The CEESP has called for an all-encompassing national strategy to combat these issues.
This strategy includes improving public security and the justice system, reinforcing the independence of the Attorney General’s Office and state prosecutors’ offices, and developing safe channels for increased citizen participation.
President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has also acknowledged public safety as a key issue since taking office in December 2018.
Notably, official figures suggest a decrease in intentional homicides compared to 2018.
Despite these challenges, Mexico’s economy, the second-largest in Latin America, grew by 3.00% in 2022.
However, the Bank of Mexico predicts a lower growth rate of 2.30% in 2023 due to an anticipated economic slowdown in the United States.
This highlights the need for continuous efforts to bolster public safety, as a safer environment is essential to attracting private investment and fostering economic growth.