November 8, 2024

Delia Ximena Sanchez Gomez

A Deepening Crisis in Guerrero

The discovery of 11 bodies in Guerrero, Mexico, underscores the ongoing violence that continues to plague the state. Known for its high levels of organized crime, Guerrero remains one of the most dangerous regions in the country. While authorities are investigating the recent homicides, this tragic event highlights the Mexican government's struggle to curb cartel violence and ensure safety. The state's inability to effectively protect its citizens reflects a broader failure of governance, as organized crime runs rampant in many parts of Mexico. Until structural issues, such as corruption and weak law enforcement, are addressed, violence in Guerrero and beyond is likely to persist.

Source: Reuters. (2024). Mexico authorities find 11 bodies in violent Guerrero state, investigating homicides. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/mexico-authorities-find-11-bodies-violent-guerrero-state-investigating-homicides-2024-11-07/ 

November 3, 2024

Abigail Mendoza Martinez

Guerrero's Educational Transformation: Innovations for an Inclusive Future 

Evelyn Salgado, governor of Guerrero, has emphasized the state's commitment to educational advancement, focusing on inclusive programs and resources that enhance learning conditions. This "revolutionary" approach to education includes the distribution of essential tools, such as over 4,600 scholarships and substantial funding for classroom technology, to empower students across Guerrero. By prioritizing equitable access to resources and focusing on skills for modern career paths, Salgado aims to create lasting social and economic impact in the region. Specific programs like "Ver Bien para Aprender Mejor" have been implemented, offering vision screenings and corrective lenses to students, addressing visual impairments that could hinder academic progress. Guerrero has also strengthened partnerships with various foundations, directing over 120 million pesos toward technology enhancements, school infrastructure, and essential supplies. Salgado asserts that this educational transformation is essential for Guerrero's development, enhancing future job prospects and overall social welfare. Through collaborative efforts between government and private sectors, the initiative targets a broad reach to impact students at all educational levels, establishing a comprehensive model of support that includes health, infrastructure, and resources to reduce dropout rates and improve educational equity across the state. Personal Opinión: The steps taken by Governor Salgado to promote an inclusive educational model in Guerrero are commendable. By addressing basic needs such as vision correction and providing technological resources, this initiative recognizes that effective education requires a foundation of accessible resources and support. However, for this transformation to have a sustainable impact, it will be crucial to include long-term programs that not only provide equipment but also establish maintenance and training for educators in using new technologies effectively.

Source: Milenio. (2024, October 29). Evelyn Salgado reafirma compromiso con la "revolución educativa" en Guerrero. Retrieved from https://www.milenio.com  

November 3, 2024

Eric Fabrizio Sanchez Gonzalez

Deputies present an initiative to guarantee gender identity in Guerrero 

A legislative initiative in Guerrero, Mexico, led by Morena party representatives, aims to establish a Gender Identity Law. This law would recognize and protect the right of LGBTIQ individuals to express their gender identity and orientation. Citing national surveys and data, the initiative stresses the challenges faced by intersex and transgender individuals, especially regarding access to essential services without discrimination. The proposal aligns Guerrero with other states in Mexico that have enacted similar protections, underscoring the importance of official identity documents to support visibility and rights.

Source: Quadratín Guerrero. (2024, October 29). Present initiative to guarantee gender identity in Guerrero. https://guerrero.quadratin.com.mx/presentan-iniciativa-para-garantizar-identidad-de-genero-en-guerrero/ 

October 25, 2024

Vivian Rios Aguilar

16 Dead Following Shootout in Tecpan, Guerrero

A violent encounter in Tecpan de Galeana, Guerrero, involved rival criminal groups, municipal police, and military forces, resulting in 16 fatalities—14 suspected hitmen and two police officers. Military and National Guard personnel were attacked during their response, leading to three soldiers being injured and transported to Acapulco for treatment. The military reported 16 assailants killed and 11 detained, along with the confiscation of weapons, vehicles, and explosives. The Guerrero State Attorney General's Office is investigating, with a commitment to uphold human rights.

Source: Aristegui Noticias. (2024, octubre 24). Saldo de 16 muertos tras balacera en Tecpan, Guerrero. https://aristeguinoticias.com/2410/mexico/saldo-de-16-muertos-tras-balacera-en-tecpan-guerrero/ 

October 25, 2024

Valeria Hernandez Toledo

How long will it take Acapulco to recover after hurricanes? This is what the government of Guerrero says

After hurricanes 'Otis' and 'John', Acapulco faces a slow tourist recovery. Despite having 11,500 rooms rehabilitated, there are still 8,200 to reach full capacity. It is estimated that hotel recovery will take until the end of 2025. In addition, Acapulco's airport, key for the influx of tourists, is expected to be restored by December of this year.

Recovery is vital for Acapulco, as tourism drives its economy. Improving tourism infrastructure and strategies will ensure a sustainable recovery.

Source: Munguía, A. (2024, October 22). ¿Cuánto tardará Acapulco en recuperarse tras huracanes? Esto dice el gobierno de Guerrero. El Financiero. https://www.elfinanciero.com.mx/empresas/2024/10/22/cuanto-tardara-acapulco-en-recuperarse-tras-huracanes-esto-dice-el-gobierno-de-guerrero/ 

October 20, 2024

Delia Ximena Sanchez Gomez

Sheinbaum supervises recovery in Guerrero and Oaxaca after Hurricane John

Claudia Sheinbaum recently visited Guerrero and Oaxaca to oversee recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane John. During her tour, she emphasized the importance of restoring damaged infrastructure and supporting affected communities. This situation highlights the resilience of these regions and their increasing significance in international business, particularly concerning economic recovery and sustainable development.

Source: MSN. (2023). Sheinbaum supervises recovery in Guerrero and Oaxaca after Hurricane John. https://www.msn.com/es-mx/noticias/mexico/sheinbaum-supervisa-recuperaci%C3%B3n-en-guerrero-y-oaxaca-tras-hurac%C3%A1n-john/ar-AA1svDaa?ocid=BingNewsVerp 

October 11, 2024

Eric Fabrizio Sanchez Gonzalez

Organized Crime and Failed State in the Capital of Guerrero

This news explores the worsening situation in Chilpancingo, Guerrero, where organized crime has taken hold of political and social structures. The assassination of the city's mayor, Alejandro Arcos, serves as a tragic example of the region's deepening crisis. The government's inability to curb crime, coupled with widespread corruption and poverty, has led to what the author terms a "failed state." Organized crime operates with near impunity, exploiting institutional weaknesses. The article calls for holistic reforms, including improved education, better opportunities for youth, and stronger anti-corruption measures to restore order.

Source: Ruiz-Healy, E. (2024, October 8). Crimen organizado y Estado fallido en la capital de Guerrero. El Economista. https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/opinion/crimen-organizado-y-fallido-capital-guerrero-20241008-729090.html 

October 11, 2024

Abigail Mendonza Martinez

Over 16,000 Food Packages and 129,000 Liters of Water Distributed to Guerrero After Hurricane John

Following the devastation caused by Hurricane John in the state of Guerrero, the Mexican Navy (Semar) has delivered over 16,000 food packages and 129,000 liters of drinking water to assist affected populations. This humanitarian effort is part of a larger aid mission to support communities in the region, such as Copala, Marquelia, and Acapulco, which suffered extensive damage due to the hurricane. In addition to food and water, hygiene supplies and medical assistance have been provided, with mobile medical brigades attending to those in need. This relief operation, managed through Mexico's "Plan Marina," underscores the critical role of the Navy in responding to natural disasters. Thousands of military personnel have been deployed to deliver supplies and assess damage, using land and air transport to reach isolated areas. The efforts come at a time when basic services in many areas remain compromised due to infrastructure damage. 
The relief efforts by the Mexican Navy are commendable, but they highlight the persistent need for better disaster preparedness in regions like Guerrero. While immediate aid is essential, long-term solutions, such as infrastructure improvements and more robust social support systems, are necessary to mitigate the recurring impacts of natural disasters. As climate change increases the frequency of these events, a shift from reactive to preventative strategies will be crucial for protecting vulnerable communities. 

Source: Rodríguez Contreras, P. (2024, October 1). Semar distribuye más de 5 mil despensas en Acapulco tras huracán "John". Línea Directa. https://www.lineadirectaportal.com​:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} 

October 02, 2024

Vivian Rios Aguilar

Declaration of Emergency Issued for Hurricane John in Guerrero

On Monday, September 30, 2024, a Declaration of Emergency was published in the Official Gazette of the Federation, issued by the Secretariat of Security and Civil Protection due to the high probability of impact from Hurricane "John," a category 3 storm, in the state of Guerrero. This hurricane, accompanied by strong winds, is expected to affect the region primarily on September 23 and 24.
The declaration aims to activate the Natural Threat Emergency Response Program in order to provide assistance to the affected population in Guerrero. The document specifies that the aid will be determined according to established guidelines and will focus on the immediate and priority needs of the population. These measures are designed to protect the lives and well-being of the people during this emergency situation caused by the hurricane.
This action enables the mobilization of resources and personnel to effectively address the consequences of the natural disaster and mitigate the risks it poses to the inhabitants of Guerrero.

Source: Mendiola Hinojosa, P. (2024, September 30). Publican declaratoria de emergencia por huracán John para Guerrero. MVS Noticias. https://mvsnoticias.com/nacional/estados/2024/9/30/publican-declaratoria-de-emergencia-por-huracan-john-para-guerrero-658803.html 

October 02, 2024

Valeria Hernandez Toledo

Tropical Depression Eleven-E threatens the coasts of Guerrero and Oaxaca

Tropical Depression Eleven-E, located near Oaxaca, will intensify in the coming hours and could become Tropical Storm Kristy. It will mainly affect the Mexican Pacific coasts, such as Oaxaca, Chiapas, Guerrero and Tabasco, with intense rains, strong winds and high waves. Authorities warn of possible landslides, floods and overflows. Oaxaca has suspended classes in some regions, and Civil Protection recommends the population to stay informed and follow precautions in view of the risks of the meteorological phenomenon.

It is worrying that these regions of the Mexican Pacific, already affected by Hurricane John, will once again face adverse weather conditions. It is crucial that authorities continue to reinforce preventive measures and that the population follows the recommendations to avoid human and material losses in the face of increasingly frequent and intense natural phenomena.

Source: Rodríguez, D. (2024, 2 octubre). La depresión tropical Once-E amenaza a las costas de Guerrero y Oaxaca. El País México. https://elpais.com/mexico/2024-10-02/la-depresion-tropical-once-e-amenaza-con-convertirse-en-ciclon-frente-a-las-costas-de-guerrero-y-oaxaca.html 

September 22, 2024

Eric Fabrizio Sanchez Gonzalez 

Promotion of access to legal identity for the indigenous population in Guerrero

As part of the Legal Identity Access Project, Guerrero's governor, Evelyn Salgado Pineda, is supporting the indigenous and Afro-Mexican population with various administrative processes. According to a statement, this initiative was highlighted during a meeting between Abel Bruno Arriaga, the Secretary for Indigenous and Afro-Mexican Development (SEDEPIA), and Roberto Barreto Bohórquez, the State Technical Coordinator of the Civil Registry. During the meeting, 372 files from the indigenous and Afro-Mexican population were handed over. The goal is to regularize 556 files, ensuring the legal identity rights of these ethnic groups, a key commitment of the current state administration. The documents delivered include applications for birth certificate corrections, clarifications, regularizations, approval of late registrations, and annulments of duplicate registrations.

September 13, 2024

Delia Ximena Sanchez Gomez

Protests at the Guerrero Congress Over Ayotzinapa Case 

On September 13, 2024, students from the Ayotzinapa Normal School vandalized vehicles and broke into the Guerrero State Congress, protesting the unresolved case of 43 students who disappeared in 2014. The protesters set fire to at least five vehicles and demanded justice for the missing students. This demonstration marked the upcoming 10th anniversary of the students' disappearance, an event linked to police involvement and organized crime. Despite investigations, the case remains unresolved. 

Source: Flores, C., & Baena, M. (2024). Infobae. https://www.infobae.com/mexico/2024/09/13/normalistas-vandalizan-autos-en-el-congreso-de-guerrero-exigen-justicia-por-los-43-con-quema-de-unidades/ 

September 13, 2024

Abigail Mendoza Martinez

Guerrero receives Tourism Merit Medal at the National Tianguis of Magical Towns

Highlighting Guerrero's participation in the National Tianguis of Magical Towns, Governor Evelyn Salgado Pineda promoted the region's culture and cuisine. At this event, Guerrero received the "Tourism Merit Medal," an acknowledgment of its efforts to promote tourism in its Magical Towns. The governor also advocated for the organization of craft contests in various regions of the state as a way to revive the local economy and strengthen cultural identity. This event is part of the state's efforts to position itself as a key tourist destination in Mexico, promoting both its natural and cultural wealth. The promotion of its cuisine, along with recognition of traditional crafts, are initiatives aimed at showcasing the best of the state and attracting both national and international tourists. These types of initiatives are crucial for Guerrero, as tourism is one of the most important sectors for its economy. The recognition received reinforces the idea that, despite security issues in some areas, the state remains a destination rich in history, culture, and beauty. It is encouraging to see the promotion of craftsmanship and cuisine, as they are fundamental pillars in keeping the local identity alive and generating income for communities. In the long term, this could help improve the state's image and create more economic development opportunities. 

Quadratín. (2024, September 12). Guerrero receives Tourism Merit Medal at the National Tianguis of Magical Towns. Quadratín Guerrero. https://guerrero.quadratin.com.mx 

September 04, 2024

Vivian Rios Aguilar

Earthquake on September 2024

On September 4, 2024, a magnitude 4.3 earthquake struck Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, at 19:38 hours. The epicenter was located 25 kilometers south of the city, with a depth of 4 kilometers. Although the seismic alert was not activated, these types of events are common in the region due to the country's tectonic activity. Guerrero is one of the areas with the highest seismic risk in Mexico, which is why such movements are constantly monitored by the National Seismological Service.

Source: Campuzano, J. (2024, september 4). *Sismo hoy 4 de septiembre de 2024: Temblor de 4.3 sacude Zihuatanejo, Guerrero*. Excélsior. https://www.excelsior.com.mx/nacional/sismo-hoy-4-septiembre-2024-mexico-ultimas-noticias-temblores-microsismos/1672067 

September 04, 2024

Valeria Hernandez Toledo

Six police officers from Taxco, Guerrero arrested for forced disappearance

Six police officers from Taxco, Guerrero, were arrested by the State Attorney General's Office (FGE) for their alleged participation in the forced disappearance of an unidentified victim. The arrest warrant was executed after an ongoing investigation, and the accused were presented before the corresponding authorities. During a hearing, they were remanded in custody and will remain in the Iguala Social Reinsertion Center (CERESO) while the complementary investigations are carried out.

This case demonstrates the serious crisis of confidence in Mexico's public security institutions. The fact that police officers, charged with protecting citizens, are involved in crimes as serious as forced disappearances is worrisome. A thorough purge of the security forces and a serious commitment to human rights are required. Only through structural reform will it be possible to guarantee that police forces carry out their work in an ethical and transparent manner.

Source: Ocampo, S. (2024, September 2). Six police arrested in Taxco, Guerrero for forced disappearance. La Jornada. https://www.jornada.com.mx/noticia/2024/09/02/estados/detienen-a-seis-policias-de-taxco-guerrero-por-desaparicion-forzada-7833 

August 30, 2024

Acapulco boosts meeting tourism to revitalize its economy

This is an economic news piece about how Acapulco is recovering from the impact of Hurricane Otis by focusing on business tourism. Despite event cancellations due to the hurricane, Guerrero state has maintained 60 to 70 conferences annually across Acapulco, Zihuatanejo, and Taxco. Hotel occupancy in Acapulco reached 80% during the latest vacation season, exceeding expectations, largely due to continued support for meetings and conventions. The state's Development Plan now prioritizes business tourism, aiming to increase its contribution to the economy, which currently stands at 2.1%. The sector is also seeing significant investments, with plans to renovate infrastructure and enhance tourist experiences. These efforts demonstrate a strong public-private partnership in rebuilding the region and solidifying Acapulco's position as a prime destination for events.

Source: El Economista. (2023, August 26). Acapulco boosts meeting tourism to revitalize its economy. https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/estados/Acapulco-impulsa-el-turismo-de-reuniones-para-revitalizar-su-economia-20240822-0152.html 

August 22, 2024

Economic Decline in Guerrero

Recent data from INEGI reveals that Guerrero's economic activity declined by 0.7% in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period last year. While this drop is less severe than in late 2023, it raises concerns for regional development, especially in sectors like agriculture and manufacturing.

This decline highlights the challenges of sustainable growth in regions dependent on primary activities. It underscores the importance of diversifying investments and fostering industries that can withstand global market shifts and local economic vulnerabilities. Addressing these challenges with strategic planning and inclusive policies is crucial for Guerrero's future competitiveness.

Source: Altamirano, J. (2024). Bajó la actividad económica en Guerrero en el primer trimestre, pero menos que en el último de 2023: Inegi. El sur. https://suracapulco.mx/bajo-la-actividad-economica-en-guerrero-en-el-primer-trimestre-pero-menos-que-en-el-ultimo-de-2023-inegi/ 

August 19, 2024

Abigail Mendoza Martinez

Economic activity in Guerrero decreased in the first quarter of the year, according to INEGI

The article from El Sur de Acapulco reports that Guerrero experienced a reduction in economic activity during the first quarter of the year, according to INEGI. The decline reflects broader challenges in the state's economy, including a drop in key sectors like agriculture and services. This downturn could exacerbate existing social and economic disparities in the region. Guerrero's economic contraction highlights the urgent need for targeted investment and development programs to stimulate growth and support vulnerable populations.

Source: El Sur Acapulco. (2023). Se redujo la actividad económica en Guerrero en el primer trimestre del año, informa INEGI. Retrieved from https://suracapulco.mx/impreso/5/se-redujo-la-actividad-economica-en-guerrero-en-el-primer-trimestre-del-ano-informa-inegi/ 

August 16, 2024

Vivian Rios Aguilar

Guerrero registers the steepest decline in household consumption

Guerrero experienced a significant 15.3% drop in retail sales in the first five months of 2024, attributed to structural and security issues and the effects of Hurricane Otis. This contrasts with states such as Hidalgo and Aguascalientes, which have seen growth in trade thanks to economic diversification and local events. This situation reveals the deep inequalities and challenges facing certain regions, highlighting the need for more inclusive and resilient strategies to foster economic development in states such as Guerrero.

Source: Lazaro, E. (2024, July 25). Guerrero registers the steepest decline in household consumption. El Economista. https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/estados/Guerrero-registra-el-retroceso-mas-pronunciado-en-el-consumo-de-sus-hogares-20240725-0001.html 

August 16, 2024

Valeria Hernandez Toledo

Chilpancingo splits in two! Landslide puts 18 neighborhoods at risk in Guerrero

A geological fault in Chilpancingo, Guerrero, has triggered a landslide that endangers hundreds of families. More than 490 homes have been affected, of which 117 are uninhabitable and 80 are at risk of collapse. The situation has generated a humanitarian crisis, leaving families in constant uncertainty and fear. Affected inhabitants, such as Sulianna Bravo and Nydia Lozano, have witnessed how their homes have become high-risk areas. Despite studies and evaluations conducted by the Autonomous University of Guerrero and Cenapred, the situation continues to worsen due to factors such as microseismicity and excess water. The families demand urgent relocation and definitive solutions to rebuild their lives.

Source: Espinoza, L. R. and. P. (2024, August 15). Land displacement forces evictions in Chilpancingo, Guerrero. Azteca Noticias. https://www.tvazteca.com/aztecanoticias/desplazamiento-suelo-obliga-a-desalojos-en-chilpancingo-guerrero?_amp=true