*Updated Jan. 21*
Guadalajara - Exactly 11 months ago, MGRR reported on Mexico's poor economic grade card (Feb. 10, 2012 - Increasing poverty and rising state debt in Mexico). The one issued today is equally disappointing.
Mexico's Secretary of Social Development (SEDESOL) said that since 2010, the number of people living in the most extreme poverty rose from 11.7 million to 13 million. That's a jump of over 11% in just 24 months. The country will soon have a population of 118 million, with a median age of 26.
The country's new president has said that ending poverty, or at least its most extreme forms, will be one of his administration's primary goals. Ending poverty key focus of incoming PRI government.
"Our strategic promise is to lead a national crusade against poverty and hunger, and to guarantee the fundamental human right to adequate nutrition for all Mexicans," said a SEDESOL undersecretary at a public forum today. That promise may be a very difficult one to keep, as Mexico deals with severe agricultural challenges which plagued much of the United States six months ago. The consequences will be felt here for a long time, experts say. Enrique Peña Nieto's biggest challenges will be economy and environment, not drug cartels.
Extreme poverty in Mexico, especially probreza alimentaria - the inability to feed one's self or one's family - is far more than an issue with ordinary social implications. It may force persons not otherwise so inclined to participate in criminal activities, sometimes ending in sudden and unexpected tragedy. In the hard, cold land of the Sierra Tarahumara, narco traffickers wage open war against the poorest.
Some have opined that the nation will be unable to solve domestic security concerns until underlying economic disorders have been cured. Economic inequality the primary cause of Mexico's insecurity, says Manuel López Obrador.
Jan. 21 - In Guadalajara the State Secretary of Labor has reported that just under 60% of the work force in Jalisco state is employed. On average workers earn under 6,000 pesos per month - about $475 dollars, or $5,700 annually. According to Mexican federal standards, that's considerably less than needed for basic household maintenance.
Mar. 11 - Enrique Peña Nieto's three smart decisions
Jan. 25 - Peña Nieto: Mexico poised for 4% economic growth in 2013
Jan. 3 - Mexican governors raise their salaries, while almost half the nation remains in poverty
Gross economic disparity still a hard fact of Mexican life
Seven of 10 Mexican households report food shortages
Mexico's southeastern states - including Yucatán - suffer endemic child poverty
Crushed by poverty, Yucatán style: The crime of not letting someone work
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