Claudia Sheinbaum has been elected as Mexico’s first female president, following in the footsteps of her predecessor and mentor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. She won the election with about 60 percent of the vote and aims to continue the policies focusing on poverty reduction and inequality that were introduced during the previous administration. Sheinbaum, an environmental scientist, served as the secretary of the environment for Mexico City under Lopez Obrador’s tenure as mayor and has remained loyal to his pro-hydrocarbon energy policies.
During Lopez Obrador’s term, Mexico saw a significant decrease in poverty rates, with over five million Mexicans escaping poverty between 2018 and 2022. Despite these achievements, challenges such as an increase in extreme poverty and a lack of access to health and educational services remain. Critics argue that while symbolic achievements were made, material changes in the daily lives of millions of people are needed. The 4T movement initiated by Lopez Obrador brought overlooked social issues to the forefront, but addressing these issues remains a complex task for Sheinbaum.
Sheinbaum has pledged to continue AMLO’s policies while also introducing new initiatives to address areas affecting working-class women. One of the key differences between the two administrations is likely to be Sheinbaum’s focus on women’s issues, such as gender-based violence and the creation of a National Care System to support women’s development and autonomy. While both presidents have faced criticism, there is hope that Sheinbaum will address inequalities affecting women and chart a different path regarding policies that impact women and girls.
A major challenge facing Sheinbaum is the impact of constitutional reforms introduced by AMLO that have stirred controversy and led to protests. These include reforms that give the military control of the civilian-led national guard and reduce government transparency, raising concerns about checks on presidential authority and potential inequality deepening measures. Sheinbaum’s immediate backing of the controversial judicial reform suggests that she may continue with some of the policies that have faced opposition.
Sheinbaum’s administration is expected to address issues such as organised crime, violence, and the growing military influence in Mexico. Critics have raised concerns about the lack of progress in addressing disappearances in the country, with families of the disappeared urging the new president to initiate a national dialogue to develop an agenda for searching for loved ones and seeking justice. Sheinbaum has expressed a desire to govern for all and rebuild relationships with sectors of the population that may have felt overlooked during AMLO’s term.
Overall, Sheinbaum inherits a complex political landscape with a mix of challenges and opportunities. Her presidency will be marked by a push for continuity with Lopez Obrador’s policies while introducing changes in key areas affecting women and addressing systemic issues such as poverty and inequality. The success of her administration will depend on her ability to navigate these challenges and effectively address the concerns of the Mexican population.
