Homicides

Mexico: President Claims Murder Rate Down, Skepticism Mounts

President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration has reported a significant decrease in Mexico’s murder rate since taking office in October 2024, with the daily homicide average in December 2025 falling to its lowest point since 2016. According to the National Public Security System, the national murder rate per 100,000 people for 2025 was the lowest since 2015. Despite these figures, the government faces criticism, particularly from opposition parties, who point to a high number of political assassinations and a rise in forced disappearances as evidence that the security strategy is insufficient. Security analysts note that lethal violence remains concentrated in certain states, highlighting ongoing challenges for the administration.

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El Salvador’s Homicide Rate Plummets: A Controversial Victory

El Salvador concluded 2024 with a record-low 114 homicides, a dramatic decrease from 2015’s 6,656 and even 2023’s 214. This reduction follows a second year under a state of emergency granting the government extensive powers, leading to over 83,000 arrests. While this has significantly improved public safety and boosted President Bukele’s popularity, concerns remain regarding human rights violations and the continued justification for the state of emergency. The drastic security improvements, however, have undeniably transformed daily life for many Salvadorans.

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