This is not news. Mexico is becoming a failed state. Just Google these words “Mexico is a failed state” and you will see at least eight articles on the subject.
Wikipedia says the term failed state is often used by political commentators and journalists to describe a state perceived as having failed at some of the basic conditions and responsibilities of a sovereign government. In order to make this definition more precise, the following attributes, proposed by the Fund for Peace, are often used to characterize a failed state:
- loss of physical control of its territory, or of the monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force therein,
- erosion of legitimate authority to make collective decisions,
- an inability to provide reasonable public services, and
- an inability to interact with other states as a full member of the international community.
Common characteristics of a failing state include a central government so weak or ineffective that it has little practical control over much of its territory; non-provision of public services; widespread corruption and criminality; refugees and involuntary movement of populations; and sharp economic decline.
The level of government control required to avoid being considered a failed state varies considerably amongst authorities. Furthermore, the declaration that a state has “failed” is generally controversial and, when made authoritatively, may carry significant geopolitical consequences.
The Associated Press reported a “Gunmen killed a state congressional candidate and his wife and two sons in their home Saturday in the Gulf coast state of Tabasco, in southern Mexico.” Gangs are the suspected killers.
It’s happening all over Mexico. Is Mexico a failed state now? That depends on your definition. The United States government needs to be more concerned about its southern neighbor and the impact on our own nation. Mexico could become a haven for terrorists that could bring significant harm to Americans.
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