Power Plays
America wants to shape its future by turning back the clock
ANGEL MIERES ZIMMERMANN CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
MARÍA CRISTINA MIERES ZIMMERMANN VICE PRESIDENT OF CULTURAL AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
ANTONIO
HOLGUIN ACOSTA VICE PRESIDENT OF INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS
FRANCO
CARREÑO OSORIO GENERAL DIRECTOR
ALFREDO GONZÁLEZ CASTRO EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
ALEJANDRA ICELA MARTÍNEZ RODRÍGUEZ COORDINATOR, HERALDO USA alejandra.martinezr @elheraldodemexico.com
ADRIÁN PALMA ARVIZU CREATIVE DIRECTOR adrian@elheraldodemexico.com
DANIEL ERNESTO BENET SÁNCHEZ NORIEGA EDITOR, HERALDO USA daniel.benet@elheraldodemexico.com
ANGÉLICA SIMÓN UGALDE EDITOR, HERALDO USA angelica.simon@elheraldodemexico.com
ALAN ARTURO VARGAS JUÁREZ EDITOR, HERALDO USA patriciatepozteco @elheraldodemexico.com
ISMAEL ESPINOZA SUÁREZ, OMAR MÁRQUEZ GRAJALES DESIGN
ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES INFOGRAPHICS
EL
Periódico El Heraldo de México. Editor Responsable: Alfredo González Castro, Número de Certificado de Reserva otorgado por el Instituto Nacional del Derecho de Autor: 04-2009-060419022100-101.
Número de Certificado de Licitud de Título y Contenido: 16921. Domicilio de la Publicación: Av. Insurgentes Sur, No. 1271, piso 2, oficina 202, Extremadura Insurgentes, Benito Juárez, C.P. 03740. Impreso en LA CRÓNICA DIARIA, SA DE CV, Avenida Azcapotzalco La Villa 160, Colonia San Marcos, Alcaldía Azcapotzalco, Ciudad de México, CP 02020. Distribuidores: ARREDONDO E HIJOS DISTRIBUIDORA, SA de CV, Iturbide 18 local D, Colonia Centro de la Ciudad de México Área 4, Alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CP 06040. ELIZABETH IVONNE GUTIÉRREZ ORTIZ, Callejón 2o de la Luz 52, Departamento 4, Interior 1, Colonia Anáhuac II Sección, Alcaldía Miguel Hidalgo, Ciudad de México, CP 11320. AEROVÍAS EMPRESA DE CARGO, SA de CV, Paseo de la Reforma 445, Piso 9, Colonia Cuauhtémoc, alcaldía Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, CP 06000 Publicación Diaria No. ____, día xx de mes de 2024.
BY DANIEL BENET
MONDAY / 02 / 10 / 2025
HERALDOUSA.COM/
PHOTOART: JORGE PEÑALOZA
TTariffs are now center stage in U.S. -World relations. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday, February 1st, the United States Government would be imposing 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods and services, as well as a 10% on Chinese imports.In a fact sheet released by the White House, the “extraordinary threat” caused by the flow of drugs and “illegal aliens” were cited as the base for this decision.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, was first to respond, announcing later that same day, retaliatory tariffs of 25% against $155 billion Canadian, or about $106 billion U.S., worth of American goods. Trudeau said some products targeted would include: “American beer, wine and bourbon, fruits and fruit juices, including orange juice, along with vegetables, perfume, clothing and shoes,” and “major consumer products like household appliances, furniture and sports equipment and materials like lumber and plastics, along with much, much more.”
Two days later, on Monday, February 3rd, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on her daily morning press briefing that, after a conversation with President Trump, the 25% tariffs imposed on Mexican imports would be put on hold for a month, while a joint working group would be set up to address issues concerning both countries; mainly regarding the flow of illegal drugs and unauthorized migrants to the U.S. from Mexico, and American guns and weapons fabricated and sold in the U.S. which end up in the hands of the cartels. Trump went on to announce it on social media, stating this would last until a “deal” was achieved. Later that day, Trudeau also announced that, after a call with President Trump, tariffs had been paused between their countries for 30 days.
China, though, has followed a different path and has slapped 10-15% tariffs on U.S. coal, crude oil, liquified gas, agricultural machinery, and some cars. China had already been penalized with tariffs during Trump’s first administration and has, since then, diversified investments and trade partners, which could mean the country is ready to better weather pressure from the United States. President Trump has yet to have talks with President Xi Jinping, a call that has been scheduled in the coming days. These two countries are the largest economies and a trade war between the two would impact on the global markets.
President Donald Trump has also announced there is consideration of imposing tariffs on the European Union goods “pretty
2024 U.S. trade deficit with: Mexico $171 billion China $295 billion. Canada $63 billion
THE UPCOMING
WARS
America’s bid power is now on trade; first
soon”. The beef with the European countries stems from issues including trade, but also, what Trump considers spending in defense by his NATO allies, of which Trump complained about during his first term as president. YES, BUT WHY?
His main arguments are national security (flow of drugs thorized immigrants into the country), competition and Some U.S. companies have higher costs of production lations, and strain to compete with cheaper options, imports. President Trump has declared other countries the main source of income to the United States Treasury the federal income tax could be replaced by revenue
UPCOMING
WARS
bid for international stepping, full throttle, first bombs: tariffs.
from several considers to be a low Trump had already
drugs and unauand revenue. due to regulike Chinese countries should be Treasury and stated from tariffs.
SOME HISTORY:
Tariffs are taxes imposed by a government on imports. They are an economic and international trade instrument that has been fundamental in the growth of American industry and manufacturing.
In the early 1800s, tariffs were the primary source of federal revenue, accounting for up to 95% in certain years. The Tariff Act of 1789, strongly supported by Alexander Hamilton, aimed to promote trade and raise government funds. Hamilton believed that tariffs would protect the budding American manufacturing sector from foreign competition and foster long-term industrial growth.
Later, tariffs became a significant point of contention, especially between the industrial North and the agrarian South. Northern industries benefited from protective tariffs, while Southern eco-
TOP U.S.
IMPORTS FROM:
MEXICO:
• VEHICLES AND AUTOMOTIVE PARTS
• COMPUTERS, MACHINERY AND ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT
• CRUDE OIL
• OPTICAL AND MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS
• FRESH PRODUCE
CHINA:
• SMARTPHONES
• COMPUTERS AND ACCESSORIES
• TOYS
• VIDEO GAME CONSOLES
• LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
CANADA:
• MINERAL FUELS
• VEHICLES
• MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT
• WOOD AND WOOD PRODUCTS
• PLASTICS
nomies, reliant on importing goods, were adversely affected by higher costs. This discord contributed to the secessionist sentiments leading up to the Civil War.
Following the Civil War, the U.S. maintained high tariff rates, averaging about 33% on manufacturing imports. These tariffs protected domestic industries, particularly labor-intensive sectors like textiles and leather, from foreign competition. The revenue generated also helped finance new federal programs and pay off war debts.
In 1930, the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act raised import duties to unprecedented levels, aiming to protect U.S. industries during the Great Depression. However, it led to international trade wars, with other countries imposing retaliatory tariffs, resulting in a 66% decline in global trade between 1929 and 1934. This period marked the end of high tariffs in U.S. trade policy.
Post-1934, the U.S. shifted towards trade liberalization, seeking bilateral and multilateral tariff reductions. The Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934 initiated this change, leading to a general trend of lowering tariffs to promote international trade.
Trump had already slapped goods from certain countries with tariffs during his first presidency. These included solar panels, steel, aluminum, washing machines and others. During his 2024 campaign he repeatedly promoted tariffs as one of his main instruments of negotiation.
DOES IT WORK?
While it may be argued that pressure through this instrument might lead countries to accept Trump’s agenda, its direct effect on U.S. economy is more of a double-edged sword. The importer of the goods pays the tariff directly to the government when they arrive at customs, and more often than not, this cost is passed on to consumers by raising end prices. Sometimes foreign producers might absorb the cost to stay competitive by reducing their supply prices.
Trump already addressed these criticisms and acknowledged that there could be negative consequences. He wrote on social media, “WILL THERE BE SOME PAIN? YES, MAYBE (AND MAYBE NOT!)”.
Whether the president achieves his immediate goals with these first round of tariffs or not, remains to be seen. Still, tariffs might persist as one of Trump’s main instruments for leveraging U.S.’ interests in the international arena during his mandate.
On the perception and reputation side, other countries might see the U.S. as unstable to deal with, which would open diplomatic opportunities for countries like China.
Some Americans have repeatedly said that the best way to respond to organized crime is with more firepower. In their reasoning, if criminals in Mexico have militarystyle weapons, authorities would have to increase their arsenal to deal with them. To some readers, this would seem a logical proposition that would allow Mexico to quell the gun violence it suffers.
THE NUMBERS ON ILLEGAL GUN VIOLENCE
Between
70and90%
of the weapons recovered at crime scenes in Mexico come illicitly from the U.S. gun shops operate along the border (Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas), according to the ATF.
Some Mexico spends around March More than half a million guns are trafficked each year from the U.S. to Mexico.
13,600
450 4
billion pesos to combat illegal gun violence. will be the next hearing in the U.S. Supreme Court as part of Mexico's lawsuit before a Massachusetts federal court.
ADDRESSING TRAFFICKING ARMS
Mexico’s formula for dealing with the drug, migration and violence problems
ADDRESSING TRAFFICKING ARMS
the region’s problems
BY: ALEJANDRO CELORIO
ILUSTRATION: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
To those people, I would invite them to remember that 30 years ago, when the Assault Weapons Ban 1994-2004 was in effect, criminal organizations on both sides of the border - conveniently called "gangs" in the United States and "cartels" in Mexico - fought with pistols and the occasional long gun. When that ban is lifted, criminals acquire military-style semi-automatic weapons, such as AR15s and .50-caliber Barrett handguns. How do you confront criminal organizations armed with rifles that have a range of two kilometers and enough power to shoot down a helicopter, well, with handcrafted armored vehicles? What is the response of the opponents to these armored vehicles, explosives launched from drones? It is not difficult to see the upward spiral in the type of weaponry used by organized crime. The proposal to confront them only with more firepower will only result in an increase in the acquisition of more powerful weapons by criminals. And who wins with this arms race between criminal gangs and the government: the arms industry.
Another question frequently heard in the halls of Washington, D.C., is why the Mexican government does not respond with military power to neutralize armed criminals. It does, but within a human rights framework in which it is not allowed to neutralize a criminal as if he were a military target.
Mexico is experiencing a situation similar to that experienced in the United States in Waco, Texas. On February 28, 1993, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant at the facilities of the cult organization headed by David Koresh . The group, which was in possession of 136 firearms, including several military-style weapons, ambushed the federal agents. A two-and-a-half hour gun battle ensued, resulting in a 51-day siege that ended with the burning of the facility. Four federal agents died in this confrontation against heavily armed civilians. Should the army have intervened to neutralize Koresh's followers, who were civilians with high firepower? This is worth reflecting on in light of the dynamics of gun violence in Mexico, in which civilians commit crimes with weapons trafficked from the United States.
Undoubtedly, confronting a criminal with high firepower is difficult. That's how authorities experienced it during the infamous attack on a school in Uvalde, Texas. On May 24, 2022, a former elementary school student killed 19 students and two teachers, wounding 17 people. Most of the victims were Hispanic. Responding authorities, including a tactical team from US Custom and Border Protection, took more than an hour to neutralize the attacker. Another tragic shooting targeting the Hispanic community was perpetrated at a supermarket in El Paso, Texas on August 4, 2019. An individual killed more than twenty people and wounded twenty others. When apprehended, the attacker confessed that his target was "Mexicans" and in a manifesto of his own described the threat of a "Hispanic invasion of Texas."
If the flow of illicit weapons is stopped, the firepower of criminals will diminish and government action will be more effective. If the continued flow of weapons from the United States to Mexico is not stopped, any action against drug traffickers and migrants will have little effect.
Those who ambushed the federal agents in Waco, Texas, the El Paso and Uvalde attackers, bought their weapons in U.S. stores. In the same way, frontmen and members of criminal organizations can acquire high-powered firearms, such as those used in these attacks, to traffic them into Mexico and empower criminal gangs. There will be those who think teachers and supermarket police should have weapons powerful enough to respond to attackers with military-style weapons. There will be those who think the government should have more and more powerful weapons to overcome the violence that threatens not only the people in Mexico, but the families of the nearly 34 million people of Mexican origin living in the United States.
Recently, President Sheinbaum offered President Trump a different formula for dealing with the region's drug, migration and violence problems. If the flow of illicit weapons is stopped, the firepower of criminals will diminish and government action will be more effective. If the continued flow of weapons from the United States to Mexico is not stopped, any action against drug traffickers and migrants will have little effect. It is related that, during the last call between the two presidents, President Trump was surprised to learn the type of weapons that are trafficked from U.S. territory. Perhaps that is the key: that more people know that in Mexico there is only one store that sells weapons; that about 74% of the weapons seized in Mexico come from the United States and that it is worth betting on stopping the flow of weapons. If there are fewer guns, particularly military-style weapons, in the hands of criminals, people on both sides of the border will be better off. If the arms trade is made more careful, there will be fewer deaths of children in the U.S. and Mexico.
MORE WOMEN IN DECISIONMAKING ROLES
“Technology as an opportunity to advance gender equality”
BY: MARÍA ELENA ORANTES
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
In 1842, the British magazine Scientific Memoirs published the English translation of a French text about a machine, signed with the initials AAL. Beyond the mystery of authorship, what was genuinely innovative were the contributions of its author, Ada Lovelace, who described an algorithm that enabled the machine to function autonomously. Ada developed the first programming language with this contribution and became the first female computer scientist. Her work laid the foundations for the evolution of computers, transitioning from analog to digital and now to quantum machines capable of processing vast amounts of information at high speeds and solving problems beyond the capabilities of current supercomputers.
Quantum technology is crucial for the future, leading significant powers like China, Germany, the United States, Japan, and South Korea to
Only 13.5% of the 9 million women who graduated in 2021 pursued STEM degrees, which amounts to just one in seven female university graduates, according to 2022 data from the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO).
MARÍA ELENA ORANTES CONSUL GENERAL OF MEXICO IN HOUSTON, INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT OF 50+1, AND MEXICAN BUSINESSWOMAN.
engage in a technological race to dominate its development; in 2023 alone, they invested nearly $42 billion. Prompted by Mexico, the UN declared 2025 the “International Year of Quantum Science and Technology” to raise awareness of its importance. This presents a unique opportunity to reflect on the benefits and challenges of technology, especially in promoting gender equality in the historically male-dominated STEM field. McKinsey estimates that quantum technology could generate trillions of dollars for the global economy, initially benefiting sectors such as chemicals, life sciences, finance, and transportation. According to PageGroup, Latin America experienced a high demand for STEM specialists in 2021, with Mexico facing a shortfall of 33,500 professionals. Despite this, only 3 out of every 10 STEM workers were women. Additionally, only 13.5% of the 9 million women who graduated in 2021 chose to pursue STEM careers, equivalent to one in every seven female university graduates, according to 2022 data from the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO).
What factors explain the underrepresentation of women in this sector? Experts attribute this disparity to systemic issues impacting girls and women, including gender stereotypes from childhood, unfavorable family environments, lack of access to STEM subjects in both public and private schools, geographical digital divides, and the limited visibility of female role models, such as Ada Lovelace.
It is essential to develop public policies that promote the inclusion of more women in STEM fields so they can create future technological tools and build inclusive systems that eliminate inequalities. For example, quantum computers could analyze vast amounts of data to implement public policies that benefit women. Simultaneously, they could simulate scenarios to predict the social impact of programs; they could even identify gender biases in allocating resources in government initiatives or corporate hiring practices.
Susana Mercado
Challenges of alternative justice in Mexico
IN JANUARY 2024, MEXICO ENACTED THE GENERAL LAW ON ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION MECHANISMS (ADRS), BROADENING OUR UNDERSTANDING OF THE MEANING AND SCOPE OF JUSTICE. THIS IS BECAUSE ADRS—SUCH AS MEDIATION, CONCILIATION, AND ARBITRATION— RECONSIDER THE CONCEPT OF LAW IN RESOLVING CONFLICTS AMONG INDIVIDUALS, FOSTERING A CULTURE OF PEACE, AND MOVING AWAY FROM THE SOMEWHAT COLD AND ABSTRACT PERSPECTIVE OF LAW AS MERELY APPLYING A LEGAL EQUATION BY JUDGES. THEIR EMERGENCE PRESENTS BOTH OPPORTUNITIES AND A SERIES OF CHALLENGES TO NAVIGATE.
In 2016, nearly a decade ago, the National Institute of Statistics and Geography reported that only 15% of users of the Mexican justice system— just one in twelve—preferred to utilize alternative dispute resolution mechanisms instead of filing their claims in traditional courts and tribunals. These figures prompt us to consider the need for a campaign to inform people about the availability of these mechanisms. The low percentage of users may stem from various factors, including a lack of public awareness about their existence and the benefits they offer compared to traditional justice, which can often be costly and time-consuming.
The global rise in ADRs suggests that they are regarded as a simpler, quicker, and more cost-effective alternative for managing the workload of traditional courts.
Evaluating how authorities and judges interact with ADRs is crucial, as they represent a recent addition to our legal system and function outside the norms of traditional processes. The willingness or reluctance to adopt them will significantly influence their effectiveness and success in practice.
Our constitution establishes a general obligation to prioritize resolving conflicts over unnecessary formalities as part of the adequate judicial protection of rights entrusted to judges and magistrates. With this new law, we have the foundational framework to chart a course that enables us to fulfill this obligation through ADRs. Determining the necessary actions for their complete implementation and functionality will not be a minor task, but the door is now open, and the path leads forward.
on the state and the legal domain (civil, criminal, administrative) at the federal level. Although the law was enacted in 2024, a presidential decree in 2016 directed executive branch authorities to implement ADRs. This decree serves as the foundational guideline and remains crucial for understanding the considerations involved in implementing ADRs and identifying specific situations where their use may not be practical.
There are references in specialized national legislation where ADRs have been operational for some time, including the Public Sector Procurement, Leasing, and Services Law, the Federal Consumer Protection Law, and the Federal Environmental Responsibility Law, among others, from which we can learn from successful experiences. Similarly, we can draw on comparative experiences from other countries, such as the United States, which has its Alternative Dispute Resolution Act of 1998 and a longstanding tradition of resolving conflicts through ADRs, or Colombia, which even has a National Conciliation Program. Legislation and citizens demand prompt and effective responses from authorities. Alternative Dispute Resolutions (ADRs) provide a promising approach to meet this need, and we should adopt them. Although the path to successful implementation may be challenging, we have the technical resources to begin utilizing them and improve our methods. By individually analyzing past experiences, we can identify the best actions to achieve the goals of ADRs.
Observing the increasing use of these mechanisms by states, courts, and private entities in the United States, we can conclude that while Mexico is implementing these strategies, it is reasonable to anticipate similar progress in our country.
As part of this process, legal operators and authorities must move beyond the framework of strict procedural law as a matter of public order, recognizing that traditional justice only addresses the substance of conflicts if formal requirements are adequately met. If these requirements are not met, the role of conventional justice is limited to verifying compliance with essential formalities, regardless of whether the core issue is resolved. Ultimately, we must remember that with this new legislation, we should prioritize conflict resolution without violating due process.
Among these complementary actions, we must examine the inclusion of specific reforms in secondary legislation that enable authorities to resolve issues through ADRs without incurring liability while adhering to budgetary constraints that allow conflicts to be settled without adversely affecting public finances.
To achieve this, specialized training programs must be developed for mediators and facilitators who will implement ADRs. Additionally, centers should be established at the municipal, state, and federal levels to support these procedures, as this law is comprehensive. The implementation of ADRs varies across the country, depending
It is noteworthy that in the United States, despite its litigious nature, the country has developed one of the most advanced and successful systems for conflict resolution beyond the traditional framework, utilizing alternative methods such as mediation and arbitration. Indeed, ADR has led to the widespread adoption of arbitration at all levels of the legal profession, with law firms often hiring retired judges or lawyers accredited by the American Arbitration Association who possess expertise in the field to provide mediation, negotiation, and arbitration services to both individuals and businesses. Observing the increasing use of these mechanisms by states, courts, and private entities in the United States, we can conclude that while Mexico is implementing these strategies, it is reasonable to anticipate similar progress in our country.
Finally, we must highlight that we are in a situation where current legislation and citizens demand a swift and effective response from authorities. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms offer a new option to meet this demand, and we should regard them as such. Although the path to successful implementation will not be easy, we have the technical tools to initiate their practice, make necessary adjustments, and analyze past experiences on a case-by-case basis. This approach will help us identify the best actions to ensure that the goals of ADR mechanisms become a reality in Mexico.”
On November 6, 2023, Little Amal arrived in Mexico after traveling for over two months and crossing the border on foot from the United States.
BY ALEJANDRA ICELA MARTÍNEZ AND DANIEL BENET
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO OYERVIDES
By that time, she had visited 14 countries, making Mexico her 15th destination and her first in Latin America..Through the performing arts, she aimed to raise awareness about the human rights of migrants fleeing war, violence, and persecution among those who came to see her.
Amal’s visit to Mexico was a vibrant, multicultural event, filled with folklore and color. The reception in each of the seven cities she visited was overwhelming. Her producers aimed to convey two key messages: children around the world are vulnerable and need our daily care and attention, and the migration paradigm should shift from an obligation to a choice.
On a warm and sunny Monday afternoon, the puppet symbolizing refugee children was welcomed by church authorities at the Basilica of Guadalupe amid the chant of “Amal, you’re already Mexican!”
On that special day in northern Mexico City, where countless visitors often gather, many came together to meet Little Amal and witness her heartfelt encounter with the Virgin of Guadalupe, a cherished religious icon of Mexico. The atmosphere was filled with emotion, joy, and a warm eagerness to connect with this 10-year-old Syrian girl on her journey to find her parents. Applause and cheers filled the air, encouraging her as she responded with a lovely gesture—extending her hand, touching her heart, and taking a moment to soak in the love and warmth from the crowd that embraced her.
Every place she visited in Mexico sparked curiosity and interest among those eager to greet her and support her journey to find her parents. Imagine a massive, 3.6-meter-tall puppet, animated with movement, rhythm, and gestures that seem to flow from the very essence of her being.
Artistic expressions beautifully enhance our understanding of various realities, including those often taken for granted, oversimplified, romanticized, or exaggerated. Instead of diving into complex explanations, these representations in relatable settings, paired with just a few words, invite our imagination to cultivate empathy and compassion. Even though we are aware of the statistics from international organizations that identify Mexico as a country with a high number of asylum requests, fully grasping this reality can still be challenging.
The British company The Walk Productions created Little Amal, drawing inspiration from Mexican mojigangas, and named her
OF LITTLE AMAL THE JOURNEY
a
photographic on the fences of
AMAL IN MEXICO: JOURNEY
photographic exhibition of Chapultepec
“hope” in Arabic. According to the UNHCR, the United Nations refugee agency, her journey seeks to raise awareness about the plight of 123 million forcibly displaced people worldwide. In July 2021, Amal started her journey in Turkey, a country that has offered refuge to thousands of Syrians fleeing civil war.
Walking—whether in caravans, alone, or with small groups—like millions around the world, is a heartfelt expression of hope. It’s a journey made by those fleeing violence in search of a better life. Even though the risks are significant, many choose to face them rather than stay trapped in poverty, marginalization, and violence.
Amal has traveled over 20,000 kilometers across 120 cities in 15 countries and two continents—Europe and the Americas. She visited the two busiest borders in the world in Mexico: Tijuana and Tapachula. Covering 4,000 kilometers and passing through major Mexican cities such as Monterrey, Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico City, and Oaxaca, her symbolic journey encourages reflection on the rights and care that children worldwide need: family protection, education, healthcare, recreation, peace, and safe spaces.
The International Organization for Migration defines a migrant as a person who changes their usual residence within a country or crosses an international border. The International Red Cross defines refugees as individuals compelled to cross borders due to threats to their lives, freedom, or safety. Internally displaced persons move within their country because of violence, conflict, human rights violations, persecution, or disasters.
These individuals possess the right to mobility, safeguarded by numerous definitions and international instruments, including the 1951 Refugee Convention, the Cartagena Declaration, International Human Rights Law, and the Principle of Non-Refoulement.
This principle is critical because it prevents the transfer of a person to another authority or territory if there are substantial grounds to believe that such a transfer would result in arbitrary deprivation of liberty, ill-treatment, torture, or persecution based on race, nationality, creed, or membership in specific social or political groups.
Risks may arise from state or non-state actors, necessitating that receiving states evaluate each situation on its own merits. The International Committee of the Red Cross specifies three conditions that must be fulfilled before an individual can be repatriated: firstly, information must be conveyed to the person in clear and comprehensible language; secondly, the migrant should have the chance to present their case before an unbiased and independent authority; and thirdly, the return of the individual must be postponed while assessing their risk level. Additionally, the Fourth Geneva Convention and the First Additional Protocol should be considered during international armed conflicts.
Migrants should not be labeled as illegal or undocumented. There are no illicit individuals, only unlawful actions; therefore, the term “illegal immigrant” is legally inaccurate and further marginalizes a vulnerable population. We must shift these narratives, and art—like that of Amal—can help societies become more open and supportive of the difficult, often harsh decisions that come with migration. Additionally, it is important to recognize that the effects of global warming are already evident and, in many cases, beyond our control, potentially putting us in a position to migrate as well.
A SURVEY BY QM AND HMG REVEALS THAT THE PUBLIC SUPPORTS THE MEXICAN GOVERNMENT'S POSITION AGAINST THE ATTACKS AND ACCUSATIONS FROM U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP.
BY REDACTION
According to a survey conducted by QM Public Opinion Studies in collaboration with Heraldo Media Group, most citizens support President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s assertion that Mexico is a free, sovereign, and independent nation and that its relationship with the United States should be based on collaboration and coordination, but never on subordination.
To the question: “Regarding Donald Trump’s statement about designating Mexican drug cartels as terrorists, President Claudia Sheinbaum responded, ‘Mexico is a free, sovereign, and independent country. It’s about collaboration and coordination, but not subordination.’ Do you agree or disagree with the President’s statement?” 86% of respondents said “agree,” 9% “disagree,” 1% “neither agree nor disagree,” and 4% “don’t know/didn’t answer.”
Another question was posed: “On Monday, January 20, during his inauguration, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he would classify Mexican drug cartels as terrorists. Were you aware of this before it was mentioned?” 73% responded with "yes,” 26% with "no,” and 1% with "don’t know/ didn’t answer.”
The next question was: “President Trump could threaten Mexico’s independence and sovereignty with this statement. Do you agree or disagree with this?” 74% responded “disagree,” 15% “agree,” 3% “neither agree nor disagree,” and 8% “don’t know/didn’t answer.”
President Sheinbaum has support from both the private sector and the public.
She stated that Trump’s accusation is slanderous.
Canada is committed to collaborating effectively. 01 02 03
METHODOLOGY
Telephone interviews. A total of 500 telephone calls were conducted for the survey Date: January 21 to 27, 2025 Margin of error: +/-4.3% Confidence level: 95% Sample: 500 effective surveys
WITH THE U.S., NOT COLLABORATION
PHOTOART: ALEJANDRO
TRUMP DECLARES DRUG CARTELS AS TERRORISTS
ON MONDAY, JANUARY 20, DURING HIS INAUGURATION, U.S. PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP ANNOUNCED THAT HE WOULD LABEL MEXICAN DRUG CARTELS AS TERRORISTS. WERE YOU AWARE OF THIS BEFORE IT WAS MENTIONED?
WITH THIS STATEMENT, PRESIDENT TRUMP MAY ENDANGER MEXICO’S INDEPENDENCE AND SOVEREIGNTY. DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE WITH THIS?
PRESIDENT CLAUDIA SHEINBAUM ADDRESSED TRUMP’S STATEMENT REGARDING THE DESIGNATION OF MEXICAN DRUG CARTELS AS TERRORISTS BY STATING, “MEXICO IS A FREE, SOVEREIGN, AND INDEPENDENT NATION. IT’S ABOUT COLLABORATION AND COORDINATION,
NEITHER AGREE NOR DISAGREE
DISAGREE DON’T KNOW/ DIDN’T ANSWER
DON’T KNOW/ DIDN’T ANSWER SAID YES AGREE SAID NO
DON’T KNOW/ DIDN’T ANSWER NEITHER AGREE NOR DISAGREE
Megan Faraimo traveled to Mexico to contribute to the growth of softball, not only within the country but also on a larger scale. A perfect game in her first outing was the ideal introduction.
BY ERIKA MONTOYA PHOTOART: JORGE PEÑALOZA
SHE SHARES A UNIQUE BOND WITH HER MOM THROUGH A SECRET LANGUAGE: THEY USED TO TOUCH THEIR NOSES TO SIGNIFY “I LOVE YOU,” WHICH HELPED CALM HER NERVES BEFORE A GAME.
Softball has been Megan Faraimo’s guiding compass throughout her journey. Now 24 years old, she has traveled to Mexico to collaborate with the newly established Mexican Softball League, aiming to promote the growth of the sport she loves.
Megan felt she had discovered the right place on her first day in Mexico City. As she strolled through the Alfredo Harp Helú Stadium, a phrase painted on the wall drew her attention:
“Live and die playing baseball (softball).”
For her, those words represent more than just a motto; they embody a life philosophy. At that moment, she realized she had made the right choice in coming to Mexico.
“We are unsure how long the sport will continue to grow and remain relevant after the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. I’ve participated in tournaments in Australia, Japan, and now Mexico. I am seeking new locations to keep playing. My goal isn’t to be a pioneer but to draw more fans to the stadiums and foster a love for watching softball. I believe I can accomplish this. I am confident I can
A GLOBAL
GLOBAL
motivate more people to engage in the sport. My hope is for more individuals to feel included in this journey.”
Faraimo gave this interview to El Heraldo USA after she decided to pack her bags and pursue her dream.
MAKING HISTORY IN MEXICAN SOFTBALL
Just weeks after arriving in Mexico, at the start of the second season of the Mexican Softball League, her name was etched into the country’s sports history.
She pitched the league’s first perfect game. The talented pitcher from California, a three-time All-American honored by the National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA), led her team to a 6-0 victory over El Águila de Veracruz. She struck out 21 batters, allowing no hits, runs, walks, or errors.
Her performance included 12 strikeouts and 57 pitches in the strike zone, making it a memorable night.
“It was an amazing moment, not just for me but for my team as well. This achievement is a team effort, and we’re leaving our mark.”
That game served as a perfect introduction to fans of Mexican softball.
HER PASSION FOR THE GAME AND HER ROOTS
Humble and easygoing, Megan sat in the Scarlet Gang’s dugout, reminiscing about her roots. She chuckled as she recalled how she drove her family crazy with her constant need to practice on the field. Since childhood, she has been passionate about sports. She explored various disciplines with her siblings, including volleyball, basketball, and softball. However, her natural competitiveness motivated her to pursue a college degree in that field.
“I began practicing when I was six but realized that I truly enjoyed pitching at eight. My family has always supported me, making me feel safe and confident in what I can do.”
Megan recalls that her stubborn personality was a defining trait even as a child. However, she
SHE HAS HERITAGE FROM BOTH SAMOAN AND HAWAIIAN CULTURES AND DISPLAYS A TATTOO ON HER RIGHT HAND THAT SYMBOLIZES IT.
SHE HAS BEEN PASSIONATE ABOUT SPORTS SINCE CHILDHOOD, AND SHE STATES THAT SHE WILL CONTINUE TO PLAY AS LONG AS SHE ENJOYS IT.
learned how to channel it into something positive, which keeps her focused to this day.
“Since I was a kid, despite the frustration that pitching brings—because it’s such a complex and demanding sport—I never allowed that frustration to break my spirit. I kept doing my thing.”
INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS
Like any career, hers has had its challenging moments. This softball prodigy has faced difficulties, yet she consistently finds ways to tackle challenges and criticism, creating a roadmap for those who follow her.
Megan Faraimo does not concentrate on leaving a legacy, but she understands the influence she can have.
Every time she steps onto the mound, she is aware that young girls are watching and connecting with her. “As a kid, I was always the tallest on the team, so I understand what it feels like to be different. But if a girl like me can be here, they can do it too. It’s all about dreaming big and working hard to make it happen.”
HER FUTURE WITH DIABLOS ROJOS
With her arrival at Diablos Rojos, where she joins Stefania Aradillas and some of the most talented softball players today, Faraimo is prepared to contribute and collaborate.
“Being a leader doesn’t mean yelling at your teammates. It involves sharing knowledge on how to play softball correctly and guiding a team to work effectively. It’s about respecting the game, which is reflected in the outcomes on the field.”
The Diablos Rojos Femenil are focused on the Serie Reina, and the addition of Megan Faraimo to their roster provides the team with a player who possesses a winning mentality and an unbreakable work ethic.
Beyond being a star, she is a leader committed to inspiring her teammates and future generations. Although her journey on the diamond has just begun, she is already making a difference
