Xóchitl Gálvez, targeting Mexico’s presidency, recently voiced worries in an interview about the military’s wide-ranging non-military engagements.
She noted the armed forces spread across over 100 extracurricular tasks, highlighting a shift away from core duties like national security and assisting the National Civil Guard with public safety.
Gálvez states this broad involvement weakens the military’s focus and efficiency.
She then critiqued the military’s poor performance in construction projects, arguing such work doesn’t fit the armed forces.
Gálvez urged returning these tasks to SICT, believing it could manage them more effectively without losing efficiency.
CIDE’s research backs Gálvez’s observations, revealing the military’s deep dive into civilian tasks.
In April 2023, legislative changes expanded the military’s duties to cover an airline, tourism, airports, airspace, and the Maya Train.
Initiated under López Obrador, these tasks significantly diverge from the military’s usual roles.
These reforms overextend the military by entering more than 20 government sectors, diluting its focus and potentially impairing defense and security.
Gálvez highlights the importance of scrutinizing the military’s extended roles, noting the potential impact on its effectiveness and commitment to Mexico’s security.
Background
The military’s pivot to civilian roles under President López Obrador has sparked debate.
Historically, Mexico’s military focused on defense and public safety, but recent years have seen a shift.
This transition raises questions about the military’s future role and effectiveness. Critics, like Gálvez, worry that such diversification could distract from vital defense missions.
They argue for a reevaluation of military engagement in non-defense tasks. This discussion reflects broader concerns about the militarization of civilian spaces in Mexico.
The debate also touches on governance, with suggestions to empower civilian agencies like SICT.
Ultimately, the military’s expanded scope could redefine its identity and function in Mexican society.