Lecture | Event
From War on Drugs to Criminal Governance: Mexico’s Security Dilemmas
- Dr. Rodrigo Peña González
- Date
- Monday 20 October 2025
- Time
- Explanation
- Followed by drinks
- Address
-
Lipsius
Cleveringaplaats 1
2311 BD Leiden - Room
- 2.28
Description
One of the most pressing challenges for Mexican president Claudia Sheinbaum is to deal with the country’s unfolding security situation. Her predecessor’s overhaul of law enforcement fell short of curving down the primary threats to public safety. Key issues, such as the persisting power and influence of drug cartels, recent changes and ongoing frictions in the criminal underworld, and a persistent fentanyl crisis, continue to produce high levels of violent crime and a general perception of insecurity throughout the nation.
At the same time, an unpredictable and bold Trump administration is increasing tensions along the border areas with amplified security measures and a toughened anti-immigration approach. Simultaneously, the US president is amassing political pressure on the Mexican government and its security agencies for a hardened approach against the principal crime syndicates and trafficking of synthetic drugs.
During this event, COLMEX expert Dr. Rodrigo Peña González will analyze these security challenges and present new findings from ongoing research into how organized crime groups use social media in recruiting young people.
The lecture will end with a Q and R session before we gather for drinks to continue the conversation.
Registration
This is a closed event with limited seats available. Please register via Dr. Håvar Solheim, h.a.s.solheim@hum.leidenuniv.nl to attend.