Commentary

Immigration and the Mexican Standoff

In America, the debate about illegal immigration has been heating up over the last few months, and is sure to develop into a full boil as the November elections draw closer.
When the issue of illegal immigration is discussed, Mexico is identified as the source of this growing problem.

Those who live on the border with Mexico are affected the most, and are becoming more vocal about this issue. Many conservatives in border states(and elsewhere) advocate the construction of massive barbed wire fences, the deployment of national guard units, and the mass deportation of anyone who is here illegally. The opposition to illegal immigration stems from the costs to US health and education systems, and to some extent the porous nature of our southern border in the age of global terrorism.

Although there is some attention given to what Mexico can do to help solve the problem, most of the hot air created regarding this issue focuses on US border security and the treatment of illegal immigrants already in this country. The question that must be addressed is: what can be done to encourage them to stay in their own country? It’s pretty obvious they will go to great lengths in order to get here, and that trying to stop them at the border with bigger fences will not work. Where there is a will, there is a way.

It is time for America to look closer at what is going on in its own backyard. Mexico City played host to one of the largest demonstrations in its history this weekend. There were citizens from all walks of life, with feet placed on various rungs of the economic ladder. Approximately a million people attended to show support for Andrea Manuel Lopez Obrador(leftist/populist) in his battle for a full recount after his narrow loss to Felipe Calderon(center right) in presidential election held on July 2.

This was a very close election, with Calderon winning by 243,000 votes, or a razor-thin .58% margin. But, after two full tallies and numerous exit polls, Calderon is still the victor.

Lopez Obrador is claiming fraud and manipulation on the part of the Federal Election Institute(IFE)- which is widely viewed as an independent and competent organization. He has also declared that outgoing president Vincente Fox, from the same party as Calderon, is a traitor to democracy for his suspected role in rigging the election . Lopez Obrador says he will demand an annulment if he is denied a complete recount.

These accusations are aimed at convincing his supporters that the democratic system does not work. He is planning another mass rally for July 30, and is encouraging boycotts of Mexican goods made by backers of his opponent, and the products of several US companies as well. These acts of civil disobedience are intended to be disruptive to society and costly to the Mexican government.

The public demonstrations are an attempt to influence the Federal Election Tribunal(the highest election court), which has until Sept. 6 to decide whether to grant Lopez Obrador his wishes or certify Calderon’s victory.

In the course of fighting for his demands, Lopez Obrador risks damaging the Mexican electoral system and the economy as well. The allegations he has made have not been backed up by credible evidence. The election court should be allowed to function as intended. Lopez Obrador should spend more time building a real case in support of his accusations, and less time on stirring resentment with divisive populist rhetoric.

Mexico has made great strides over the last 10 years, both politically and economically. The election of Vincente Fox in 2000 satisfied international standards, interest rates and inflation are the lowest in decades, and Mexico’s currency reserves have never been higher. There are still huge gaps between rich and poor, and problems with corruption and illegal drug trafficking, but these issues can be addressed more effectively by a country with strong political institutions and a stable economic environment.

Lopez Obrador claims to represent the interests of the poor and destitute, yet his
selfish actions may erode the very institutions designed to protect the bulk of his constituency. The Federal Election Tribunal should be left to do its work. Candidates have every right to contest election results in the courts- with evidence, but not in the streets- with baseless and damaging accusations.

The situation unfolding in Mexico has direct implications for the United States. If Mexico descends into chaos due to a breakdown in their political institutions and a disruption of economic activity, the ripple effect will surely be felt across the border.  America must assist Mexico in its quest for a more just and equitable society. This is the most effective way to deal with the issue of illegal immigration.

© 2006 Splendid Marbles.