The Colombianization of Mexico? The Evolving Mexican Drug War

Poorly understood situations give rise to poorly planned policies that are unlikely to achieve their objectives. Since Mexico differs from Colombia, a “Colombian” solution is unlikely to work. This paper seeks to correct this misunderstanding by identifying significant dissimilarities between Colombia and Mexico. The goal is to accentuate the differences between the two countries that refute the “Colombianization” hypothesis. The paper concludes with an assessment of policies that have been pursued in Colombia and suggested for Mexico; the prognosis for the future is not good.