Merida Initiative: The Answer for Mexico?

Prior to September 11, 2001, internal strife and drug trafficking increased immensely in Colombia. After September 11, 2001, the same trend began in Mexico-evident mostly in drug cartel violence. The problem has escalated rapidly since 2006 after Mexicos most recent presidential election. Both these countries-especially Mexico, which shares a 3,000 mile border with the United States-present a security threat to the United States. Since 911, the United States has been tightening up the borders. The newly created Department of Homeland Security has given border security a higher priority by providing equipment, intelligence, and personnel as part of a new initiative in the security plan. This SRP discusses US security plans for both countries. It explains how they were devised and points out their differences. It considers whether Plan Colombia should be the model for Mexico as the Merida Initiative is still in its infancy. It concludes with recommendations for strengthening the Merida Initiative.