Join the CSIS Americas Program for a timely and important conversation on the state of democracy in Mexico with Dr. Lorenzo Córdova Vianello.
On February 22 of this year, Mexico’s senate passed an electoral reform that threatens to overhaul the National Electoral Institute (INE), significantly cutting its budget, staff and offices, and stripping it of its ability to independently oversee the country’s elections. The bill, known as “Plan B,” moved forward almost immediately even after an even more sweeping reform was defeated in Congress and it represents a serious setback to Mexico’s democracy as well as a path for President Andrés Manuel López Obrador to continue his consolidation of power. The weakening of this important electoral arbitrator, the modification of what is considered political propaganda, and the easing of sanctions against political parties are worrying scenarios that the international community should focus on at a time in which democratic backsliding is plaguing the region.
Immediately after the legislation passed the senate, the Mexican public took it to the streets to protest the bill all across the country and abroad. The great popular support that the INE enjoys shows the galvanization of the country behind the institution, and points to popular and legal battles that Lopez Obrador will face in the coming months. This event will spotlight Dr. Lorenzo Cordova Vianello, director of the INE, who will present on the state of democracy in Mexico and the outlook of institutions in the country. The panel will also delve into policy recommendations for the United States and international community to support Mexico’s democracy.
