A deeply personal and introspective narrative reflecting on a complex relationship and the emotional turmoil experienced while leaving Mexico City. The author uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey feelings of anxiety, longing, and fragility.

The Zapatista liberation movement celebrated its 30th anniversary in Chiapas with a new 120-year plan aimed at decentralizing governance and enhancing community resilience. The event featured symbolic performances and highlighted the movement's commitment to Indigenous rights, autonomy, and long-term survival amidst increasing violence and political instability in Mexico. The new structure replaces traditional municipalities with grassroots organizations to better address local needs and challenges posed by global issues like climate change and crime. The Zapatistas also emphasized international solidarity and knowledge exchange as crucial for their future.

The Zapatista Liberation Army (EZLN) marked its 30th anniversary with a new 120-year plan aimed at restructuring its governance to bring decision-making closer to the communities. The new structure replaces the 30 Zapatista Rebel Autonomous Municipalities and 12 Good Government Juntas with Local Autonomous Governments and Zapatista Autonomous Government Collectives. This change is intended to ensure the survival of their towns amidst global challenges like climate change and political disintegration. The article highlights the Zapatistas' resilience and innovative approaches to land ownership and governance, despite the increasing violence and paramilitary rule in Chiapas.

A lithium deposit in Sonora, Mexico, once touted as the world's largest, is now under scrutiny for its actual viability. The Mexican Geological Service and the Mexican Mining Chamber have downplayed its significance, citing technical challenges in extraction. Bacanora Lithium, now owned by China's Ganfeng Lithium, faces criticism for providing misleading information. The Mexican government, led by President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, has nationalized lithium, creating the state-owned company LitioMx, while local residents express concerns over environmental impacts and economic promises. Political and economic tensions surround the future of this strategic resource.

Thousands of African, Haitian, and Cuban migrants are stranded in Tapachula, Mexico, in dire conditions as they seek transit visas to move northward, primarily aiming for asylum in Canada. The Mexican government, under pressure from the US, has denied these visas, leading to protests and the formation of the Assembly of African Migrants. The Mexican President, Andrés Manuel López Obrador, has deployed the National Guard to control the situation, echoing US President Donald Trump's hardline stance on migration. Human rights organizations are assisting the migrants, but the situation remains tense and unresolved.

A small plane carrying drugs landed on a highway in Quintana Roo, resulting in the death of a soldier and injury to an army commander. The incident, noted by President López Obrador, highlights ongoing violence in Bacalar related to drug trafficking. The Mexican National Army, conducting vehicle traffic control operations in the area, continues to face challenges from organized crime syndicates vying for control.

Mexico's discovery of the world's largest lithium deposits in Sonora, led by Canadian company Bacanora, presents both opportunities and challenges. While lithium is crucial for the global energy transition, its extraction poses significant environmental risks and security concerns, especially in regions controlled by criminal organizations. Chinese company Ganfeng Lithium has partnered with Bacanora to develop the mine, aiming to bolster the global EV market. However, issues such as water shortages, chemical spills, and volatile global lithium prices complicate the scenario. The Mexican government is considering manufacturing EVs in state-owned factories, but the success of this venture will depend on stringent environmental protection standards and effective management.

The article highlights the inhumane conditions faced by migrant detainees in Mexico, focusing on the experiences of Canadian Daniel Maté and Haitian Herbenson Elma. Maté, detained due to an expired tourist visa, contrasts his relatively better treatment with the severe neglect and racism faced by other detainees, particularly Haitians. The narrative underscores systemic issues within Mexico's immigration system and criticizes the joint efforts of the Mexican and U.S. governments to expel Haitian migrants, often using violent force. Maté's story, amplified through social media, calls for greater awareness and action from North American citizens regarding the treatment of migrants.

In Chilpancingo, Guerrero, local journalists have founded Amapola Periodismo to challenge the official narrative and highlight the region's complexities beyond its association with illicit poppy cultivation. The platform aims to present optimistic stories and address underlying social issues like poverty and femicides. The initiative emerged partly in response to the international media influx following the 2014 Ayotzinapa student disappearances. Amapola collaborates with local journalist associations to provide nuanced coverage and counteract the stereotypical portrayals often presented by foreign media.

In Tapachula, Mexico, a diverse group of migrants from various countries gather, seeking asylum and a better life. The U.S. has implemented stricter asylum policies, requiring applications through the CBP One app and imposing additional conditions. These policies have left many migrants stranded in Mexico, facing dangers and uncertainties. The article highlights the impact of U.S. and Mexican border policies on migrants, including the increased militarization and the selective enforcement of asylum priorities, which favor certain nationalities over others.

A group of Mexican senators has initiated legislative efforts to remove abortion from the federal penal code, following a landmark Supreme Court ruling that decriminalized abortion at a federal level. The ruling, driven by the advocacy of Grupo de Información en Reproducción Elegida (GIRE), emphasized human dignity and reproductive autonomy. While Mexico City and several states had already decriminalized abortion, the federal law still criminalized it. The legislative process, overseen by the Court and involving GIRE in an advisory role, faces opposition from groups like Mexico’s Civil Association for the Rights of the Conceived. The ruling is celebrated by the Marea Verde feminist movement, which sees it as a significant victory. However, challenges remain in ensuring accessible and safe abortion care due to the under-resourced public health system. Experts stress the need for comprehensive reproductive health discussions, including contraception, maternal health, and the role of men in family planning.

The Ortíz family's forcible eviction from their long-standing torta business in Mexico City's Roma Norte neighborhood highlights the city's affordability crisis. The family, who had operated Tortería Colima for over five decades, was removed due to rising demand for rental properties and commercial spaces. The eviction, marked by physical violence and legal battles, underscores the broader issue of gentrification and the displacement of lower-income residents by higher-income foreigners, particularly from the U.S. The article also touches on the financialization of housing and its impact on local communities, as discussed in the documentary film PUSH.

Migrants, including Miguel from Guerrero, Mexico, face significant challenges using the CBP One app, developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, to secure appointments for humanitarian exemptions. The app's glitches, limited appointment slots, and location restrictions force migrants to spend considerable time and resources, often leading to desperate measures and exploitation by criminals. Despite efforts to optimize their chances, many migrants, like Miguel, ultimately cross the border without the necessary documentation due to the app's persistent issues.

Negotiations broke down between Bacanora Lithium and local landowners in Sonora, Mexico, over lithium mining, raising concerns about environmental costs, as seen with other mining activities in the resource-rich region. A major mining accident by Grupo México in 2014 still affects local memory. The Sonora Lithium Project, operated by Bacanora Lithium and acquired by Chinese giant Ganfeng Lithium, is under scrutiny for providing misleading information about its concessions. Mexico's President López Obrador has created a state-owned lithium company, LitioMx, and passed a law to nationalize lithium as a strategic mineral, potentially banning foreign ownership of lithium mining concessions, which has led to tensions with North American trade partners.

The Mexican government has filed a lawsuit against 10 US gun manufacturers and distributors, seeking $10 billion in damages for gun violence in Mexico. The lawsuit challenges the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), arguing it does not apply in Mexico. The case has garnered support from various US states, Latin American countries, and advocacy groups. The lawsuit has already impacted the gun industry, with companies like Smith & Wesson and Sturm, Ruger & Company facing increased scrutiny and shareholder activism. The outcome of the case, pending a decision by Chief Judge F Dennis Saylor, could set a precedent for future litigation against the gun industry.

Australian farmers are cultivating agave plants to produce 'Australian agave spirit,' aiming to capture the market for tequila and mezcal enthusiasts. Top Shelf International is leading the project in Queensland, with other plantations in New South Wales and South Australia. The initiative is supported by research from Adelaide University and a government grant. Black Snake Distillery in New South Wales is also producing agave spirits, using a different species of agave. The Mexican tequila industry, represented by the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry, emphasizes the importance of the 'denomination of origin' for tequila, highlighting the challenges for foreign producers. Both Australian ventures are seeking expertise from Mexican distillers to improve their products.

The journalist, an independent Australian writer and researcher, has been residing in Mexico City since 2018 and started freelancing in 2016. Their work began in earnest during the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, where they reported on the local favela communities' reactions to the event. During this time, they also learned about the influence of international reporting on global narratives concerning marginalized communities through the Rio-based NGO, Catalytic Communities. Currently, the journalist focuses on the consequences of the 'war on drugs' and its impact on various societies.

Mexico's Supreme Court upheld a 2013 ruling known as the 'precautionary principle,' allowing authorities to reject GMO crop planting permits due to potential harm to health and the environment. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador issued a decree to ban genetically modified corn for human consumption by 2024 and eliminate glyphosate use. Despite legal challenges from seed companies and industry bodies, the ban does not affect animal feed imports. The debate on GMOs in Mexico continues, with concerns about cross-pollination with native corn and the impact on biodiversity, culture, and farmer dependency on multinational corporations.

The CEO of the United States Business Association of E-Commerce, Tayde Aburto, encourages US firms to consider nearshoring to Mexico, leveraging the country's strengths such as its free trade agreement with the US and Canada, cultural affinity, and skilled workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the attractiveness of nearshoring due to supply chain disruptions and rising costs associated with Chinese goods. Mexico's economy, which fell into recession at the end of 2021, could benefit from nearshoring, especially in growing industries like medical supplies, aerospace parts, and electronics. Mexican officials, including Economy Minister Tatiana Clouthier, are promoting Mexico as a manufacturing hub, while advisers like Sergio C Muñoz emphasize the need for infrastructure development to support this shift.

Citigroup's decision to exit Mexico and sell Citibanamex, including its cultural development center Fomento Cultural Citibanamex, has raised concerns about the fate of its significant Mexican art collection. The collection, featuring works by renowned artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, is protected by Mexican federal laws but faces uncertainty amid the sale. Mexican officials and cultural advocates emphasize the importance of keeping the collection intact and within the country. Potential buyers include Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas, HSBC, and Nubank. The Mexican government is evaluating the value of Citibanamex's assets, with President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador advocating for Mexican ownership.

Activists in Mexico, including Nancy Rojas and the organization Red Tsiri, are pushing to expand the country's ban on genetically modified (GM) corn to include imports. The current ban, reinforced by the Supreme Court, prohibits the cultivation of GM corn but allows imports for livestock and industrial use. The movement has gained significant public support, emphasizing the cultural and health importance of native corn. Despite opposition from multinational companies like Bayer and concerns about trade agreements with the US, advocates argue that the ban is crucial for preserving Mexico's agricultural biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Mexico's political maneuvers regarding its lithium reserves have tested President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's commitment to keeping natural resources under national control. AMLO's energy reform bill, which includes nationalizing lithium deposits, has raised concerns about China's ability to secure lithium for its green energy plans. Despite initial nationalization plans, Mexican regulators allowed Ganfeng Lithium to take over Bacanora's Sonora mining concessions, highlighting a tension between national sovereignty and global economic pressures. Shareholders of Bacanora have protested the takeover, fearing monopolization and geopolitical risks. The global race for lithium, crucial for green energy, has intensified, with Mexico's deposits becoming a focal point in the competition between the US and China. AMLO's balancing act aims to maintain Chinese investment while managing nationalist rhetoric. Analysts note that while China is concerned about potential nationalization, Mexico remains more economically tied to the US.

Mexican filmmakers are increasingly using their international reach to address major social issues such as organized crime, state violence, and impunity. Films like Adrenalina, La Civil, Una Película de Policías, and Tolvanera not only highlight these issues but also aim to provoke action through social impact campaigns. These films are part of a growing trend in Mexican cinema that seeks to generate political and social pressure to achieve justice, often in collaboration with NGOs and social movements. The article underscores the potential of storytelling on international screens to foster justice and accountability in Mexico.

The article explores the reasons behind the extreme violence associated with Mexico's drug trade, examining the complex interplay of factors that contribute to the ongoing conflict and instability in the region.

The article explores the violent nature of Mexico's drug trade, challenging cultural stereotypes and highlighting the role of state corruption and U.S. drug policies in exacerbating violence. It draws on Benjamin T. Smith's book, 'The Dope: The Real History of the Mexican Drug Trade,' which provides a detailed historical account of the drug trade's evolution and its devastating impact on Mexican society. The narrative underscores the inadequacy of traditional concepts like corruption and gang wars in explaining the scale of violence, emphasizing the need for a structural analysis. The article also points out the overlooked role of racism and classism in the drug war and calls for more inclusive scholarship on the subject.

Thousands of people in Mexico, particularly from Guerrero, are victims of forced internal displacement due to armed criminal groups and mining companies. Despite promises from the government, displaced families continue to live in precarious conditions, with limited support and recognition. Efforts to pass legislation to formally recognize and support displaced people are ongoing but face delays. Human rights defenders and displaced individuals call for greater recognition and assistance from the state.

Legal cannabis is set to transform Mexico's economy, with significant interest from foreign investors. The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling and pending Senate legislation are key milestones. Major firms like Clever Leaves and CBD Life are preparing to navigate the risks of violence, extortion, and corruption, drawing on experiences from Colombia. Experts emphasize the importance of strategic location choices and strong local partnerships to mitigate these risks. The potential for reducing narcotrafficking violence remains uncertain, but the economic opportunities are substantial.

An Afghan-Mexican couple, Kahlil Bakhtiyari and Fernanda Olivares, are working to evacuate Kahlil's twin brother Yasin and their family from Kabul, Afghanistan, following the Taliban takeover. The Bakhtiyari family, being Hazara and with Yasin a former captain in the national army, face severe risks. Mexico has granted humanitarian visas to Afghan refugees, and the couple is exploring options to secure safe passage for their family, including contacting the Mexican ambassador in Iran and the Australian Embassy in Mexico. The situation is urgent as the Taliban has been targeting those associated with foreign forces and the previous government.

Three years ago, Cresencio “Chencho” Pacheco was forcibly displaced from Guerrero, Mexico, due to gang violence fueled by US-sourced firearms. The Mexican government has filed a $10bn lawsuit against major US gun manufacturers, alleging their negligence has led to illegal arms trafficking into Mexico. The lawsuit, filed in Massachusetts, targets brands like Smith & Wesson, Beretta, and Glock, claiming that a significant portion of guns used in Mexican crimes originate from the US. Despite the strong message, experts believe the lawsuit faces significant legal hurdles and may not substantially reduce gun trafficking. The Mexican government estimates over two million weapons have been smuggled from the US in the past decade, contributing to rising gun homicides. The lawsuit is part of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador's broader strategy to assert Mexican sovereignty and address violence, though real solutions require systemic reforms within Mexico.

Mexico is holding a referendum to decide whether to investigate former presidents for corruption and human rights violations. The initiative, proposed by President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, targets the administrations from 1988 to 2018. Despite legal challenges, the referendum aims to address the social and economic damage caused by corruption, which is estimated to cost between 2 and 10 percent of Mexico's GDP. The country also faces high levels of violence, with record-breaking homicide rates. The outcome of the referendum could push for judicial investigations against former presidents, although a 40 percent voter turnout is required for validity.

Rising tortilla prices in Mexico are severely impacting households, with basic staples like tortillas seeing significant price hikes. Maria Eugenia Aguilera, a resident of Mexico City, highlights the financial strain on her family and community. The pandemic has exacerbated food price inflation, with the national Consumer Price Index showing a 13.5% increase in tortilla prices in July. President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's administration has raised the minimum wage, but many still struggle. The central bank raised interest rates to curb inflation, while experts suggest more aggressive government action to stabilize prices. The IMF has raised Mexico's economic growth forecast, but until prices stabilize, families like Aguilera's continue to face hardships.

The article critically examines the proposal for women's police stations in Australia, highlighting the lack of credible evidence supporting their effectiveness and the problematic nature of existing research. It discusses the mixed results from similar stations in other countries and emphasizes the need for community-based and culturally sensitive solutions, particularly for Indigenous women. The article calls for a reconsideration of support for women's police stations, advocating for evidence-based early intervention and prevention services led by Indigenous communities.

Mezcal producers in Mexico, such as Patricia Ruíz of Los Dioses de Agave and Gabriel Martínez of ¡Ay Dolor!, faced significant challenges due to the pandemic with government decrees closing bars and reducing tourist activity. The industry saw a 21% drop in exports in 2020, with total production also declining. Despite these setbacks, producers like Miriam Luna and Leyla Daw adapted by shifting to home deliveries and online tastings, respectively. The industry, which is centered in Oaxaca but also present in Guerrero, is looking towards recovery with plans such as creating a 'mezcal route' for tourists and learning about e-commerce. The environmental impact of the industry is also a concern, with issues such as soil depletion and water supply, as well as the risk of agave plant extinction.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has accused USAID and other U.S. organizations of undermining Mexican sovereignty by funding civil society groups like Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity (MCCI) and Article 19. These accusations come amid political tensions and upcoming elections in Mexico, where López Obrador's party seeks to gain more power. The president's rhetoric taps into historical resentment towards U.S. intervention in Latin America and aims to rally domestic support. Critics argue that his actions suppress independent journalism and civil society, while funding cuts to social programs have forced many organizations to seek foreign support.

Mezcal producers in Mexico, particularly in Oaxaca and Guerrero, faced significant challenges during the pandemic, with production halts and a drop in exports. Producers like Patricia Ruíz and Gabriel Martínez experienced severe disruptions, while others like Leyla Daw and Miriam Luna adapted by shifting to online sales and home deliveries. The pandemic highlighted existing issues in the industry, including environmental sustainability and poverty. Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism for recovery and new strategies, such as creating a 'mezcal route' for tourists.

Mexico's youth are facing severe employment challenges, with over half of job losses in the country affecting those under 29. Despite an expected economic growth, the recovery is not swift enough to alleviate the struggles of young Mexicans. The government's limited financial assistance during the pandemic has been criticized, and experts suggest labor market reforms and targeted programs to help young people. The informal sector has become a refuge for many, with jobs like food delivery becoming more common among the youth.

Latin America, declared the global epicenter for Covid-19 by the WHO, has faced high infection and death rates, with a significant underreporting of fatalities in Mexico. Despite high vaccination rates, countries like Chile and Colombia are experiencing new waves of the virus. China and Russia have stepped in to provide vaccines, with Mexico approving the Convidecia and CoronaVac vaccines and receiving millions of doses. Vaccine diplomacy is seen as a way for China to build soft power, continuing a trend of health cooperation with Latin America. Political scandals have emerged over elites receiving vaccines ahead of the public. The urgency to vaccinate massively and quickly is emphasized to prevent the spread of new variants and alleviate the pandemic.

La Reinota, a 28-year-old woman named Hellen, has become a symbol of feminist protests in Mexico after a video of her throwing a tear gas canister back at police during the International Women's Day march went viral. The incident underscores the country's severe problem with violence against women, with at least 11 women killed daily and a high rate of impunity for crimes, especially femicide. The feminist movement in Mexico continues to grow, calling for an end to the patriarchal pact and greater accountability for gendered violence. Hellen's actions and the subsequent support she has received highlight the widespread frustration with the government's inadequate response to these issues, including President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's dismissal of the feminist movement and support for controversial figures like Félix Salgado Macedonio and Andrés Roemer.

The article reflects on the challenges of reporting the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico, particularly for journalists who face both the health risks of the virus and the economic pressures of a country with no stringent lockdowns or government support. It contrasts the dire situation in Mexico, with over 160,000 deaths and overwhelmed hospitals, against Australia's aggressive response to infections and economic support measures. The author discusses the role of local media networks and organizations in supporting journalists and emphasizes the importance of conveying the human stories behind the statistics, while avoiding stereotypes of Mexico as a 'Third World' country.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) poses a diplomatic challenge for the new Biden-Harris administration, having delayed acknowledging Biden's election and signing a law restricting foreign agents, particularly targeting the US DEA. AMLO's actions, including the exoneration of General Salvador Cienfuegos and increased militarization, reflect a complex stance on US-Mexico relations. The US relies on Mexico for trade, immigration control, and drug crime investigations, but AMLO's assertive sovereignty and anti-American sentiment complicate cooperation. The Biden administration must navigate these tensions while addressing migration and border policies.

Ann Deslandes and Pablo discuss the cultural and gender role differences between Mexico and Australia, highlighting how these roles are more explicitly enforced in Mexico. They also delve into their personal experiences with food culture in both countries, expressing a deep appreciation for the communal and diverse nature of Mexican and Australian cuisines. The conversation touches on the expectations and stereotypes associated with gender roles and how these are perceived and navigated in their respective countries.

Mexico's feminist foreign policy, a first in Latin America, aims to promote gender equality and combat gender-based violence. Overseen by Martha Delgado Peralta, it has led to international initiatives like the Gender Action Plan at UN COP25 and the EU-UN Spotlight Initiative. Despite these efforts, domestic gender relations and violence against women remain severe issues, with President López Obrador criticized for his unsympathetic stance. The policy's success is debated, with some seeing it as a strategic move to strengthen the international legal system and others calling for more consistent domestic action.

Ganfeng Lithium, a major lithium producer and Tesla supplier, plans to build a lithium-ion battery recycling plant in Mexico to serve the US EV market and recycle batteries from Tesla cars and Chinese-made electric buses. The plant will complement Mexico's first lithium mine in Sonora, which Ganfeng partners with Bacanora. Studies highlight the environmental and economic benefits of lithium battery recycling. Mexican politicians have debated nationalizing lithium resources, with proposals to create a state-owned company, Litiomex, to manage the industry. Environmental and social concerns persist, including the impact of open-pit mining and the risks to workers in recycling processes. The Mexican government has introduced a special security force to protect the mining sector from crime and corruption.

The Day of the Dead in Mexico has taken on a more somber tone due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with families like that of Leonardo Peña Bonillo, who died from the virus, facing restrictions on cemetery visits. The pandemic has severely impacted Mexico, with over 90,000 deaths and significant economic consequences, exacerbated by distrust in government communications. Traditional celebrations are curtailed, but some activities, like the open-air performance of La Llorona in Xochimilco, continue with safety measures. The economic strain is evident, with many unable to work from home and facing severe financial hardship.

Mexican women are continuing their fight against femicide and violence despite the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Large demonstrations and a national strike in early March highlighted the urgency of addressing violence against women. However, the pandemic has increased risks as many women are trapped at home with abusive family members. Organizations like Brujas del Mar are providing support through hotlines and food donations. Despite existing laws, systemic issues such as impunity and funding cuts hinder effective responses. The government has been criticized for inadequate action, and activists continue to push for better policies and support systems.

Criminal groups in Mexico are exploiting the coronavirus pandemic to incite looting via social media, targeting stores like Bodega Aurrera, Elektra, Coppel, and Walmart. Incidents of theft have been reported in Oaxaca, Mexico City, and México state, with authorities identifying numerous Facebook profiles promoting these activities. The looters justify their actions as a response to Covid-19 prevention measures, reflecting a broader ideology of entitlement to such acts.

Shareholder activism is increasingly being used to pressure major oil companies to adopt greener policies. Environmental campaigner Heath Joske addressed Equinor's AGM, urging shareholders to halt drilling plans in the Great Australian Bight. Despite not passing, the resolution highlighted the risks of oil extraction to local wildlife and climate. Organizations like Greenpeace Norway, World Wildlife Fund, and Climate Action 100+ are leading these efforts, achieving some success in pushing companies like Shell and BP to commit to climate goals. However, without stronger regulatory pressure, companies may continue fossil fuel extraction to meet energy demands.

San Pedro La Laguna, a picturesque town by Lake Atitlán in Guatemala, attracts tourists with its natural beauty and vibrant culture. The town, predominantly inhabited by indigenous Tzʼutujil people, faces challenges reflective of broader Guatemalan issues, including poverty and the impact of US immigration policies. Despite these struggles, the community thrives through tourism and the resilience of its people. The article highlights personal stories, such as Ernesto's deportation and Mateo's preparation for a journey to the US, while also showcasing the positive influence of tourism on local prosperity and the strong sense of community among residents and expats.

Theresa, an African migrant, is among many who have fled war and persecution, traveling through multiple countries to reach Mexico, where they are now stuck due to denied transit visas. The Mexican government, influenced by US policies, has cracked down on migrants, leading to protests and accusations of mistreatment. Despite the harsh conditions, migrants like Theresa hope to seek asylum in Canada, believing it offers a better future. Human rights organizations are assisting, but the situation remains dire with limited resources and increasing tensions.

African migrants, including those from Angola, Burkina Faso, and Cameroon, are stuck in Mexico's Tapachula as they attempt to reach Canada. They face significant challenges due to Mexico's refusal to issue transit visas, influenced by US immigration policies under President Trump. The Mexican government, led by President Obrador, has deployed the National Guard to control the migrants, leading to protests and accusations of mistreatment. Human rights organizations like the Fray Matias Centre and UNHCR are involved in providing assistance. Migrants express a desire to seek asylum in Canada, citing safety and better opportunities.

The article discusses the emotional and psychological impact of immigration detention, focusing on a young man from a persecuted ethnic minority who fled his country and was detained in Australia. It highlights the inhumane conditions and indefinite nature of detention, criticizing the Australian government's policies.

The economic viability of opium poppy farming in Guerrero, Mexico, has plummeted due to the rise of synthetic opioids like fentanyl in the United States. This has led to increased poverty and insecurity among local farmers. Efforts to transition to legal crops like corn, beans, and avocados face significant challenges, including soil damage, climate change, and the need for government support. Despite promises from Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, concrete actions have been limited. The article underscores the urgent need for sustainable agricultural solutions and government intervention to alleviate the region's economic and social issues.

Journalists in Mexico face extreme dangers, including threats, kidnappings, and murders, largely due to government corruption and complicity with organized crime. The article highlights the case of Ernesto, a journalist threatened after reporting on government corruption, and Anabel Hernández, an investigative journalist forced into exile. The Mexican government has been accused of using Pegasus malware to spy on journalists. The situation in Mexico is compared to recent events in Australia, suggesting that press freedom is under threat globally.

More than 300 displaced individuals from Guerrero, Mexico, are camped outside the National Palace in Mexico City, demanding action against violence in their towns. Community leader Marisela Castulo Guzman recounts the harrowing experience of fleeing violence perpetrated by criminal organizations. The displaced, who have been living in makeshift conditions, seek a presidential guarantee for their safe return or sustainable relocation. Despite meetings with government officials and UN representatives, there has been no direct response from President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who had previously promised to address the security situation in Guerrero.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has introduced a 'free zone' initiative along the U.S.-Mexico border to boost local economies and reduce migration to the U.S. The plan includes tax reductions, increased minimum wages, and lower fuel prices. While some view the initiative positively, hoping it will create jobs and attract U.S. investments, others express concerns about the impact of higher wages on businesses. The initiative follows a new trade agreement between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, aiming to strengthen cross-border economic ties.

Mexico's President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has launched a new economic initiative aimed at reducing migration to the US by boosting local economies along the border. The 'zona libre' scheme includes tax cuts, increased minimum wages, and reduced fuel prices to stimulate business growth and employment. While some local business leaders are optimistic about the potential benefits, others express concerns about the impact of higher wages. The initiative follows a new trade deal between Mexico, the US, and Canada, and aims to strengthen cross-border economic ties.

Immigrant communities in Melbourne are actively resisting the rise of white supremacy in Australia, highlighted by recent events such as a far-right rally in St. Kilda. The media's portrayal of a 'race war' between Vietnamese and Sudanese communities has been criticized for inciting division. Key figures and organizations, including the Vietnamese Community in Australia and Democracy in Colour, are working to counteract these narratives and support affected communities. The article underscores the ongoing challenges of racism and the importance of solidarity among diverse ethnic groups in Australia.

Mexico City, often perceived as dangerous, is highlighted as a family-friendly destination with numerous activities for children. The article lists various outdoor and indoor attractions, including Bosque de Chapultepec, Museo del Juguete Antiguo México, Biblioteca Vasconcelos, and Papalote Museo del Niño. It also mentions day trips like El Nido aviary and special treats such as Inspark in Plaza Carso. The narrative emphasizes the city's safety and cultural richness, making it an ideal place for family adventures.

The 'migrant caravan' that originated from Honduras and attracted media attention due to President Trump's comments, consists of around 5000 people from Central America. They face anti-migrant sentiment and challenging conditions at the US border in Tijuana. The caravan's formation is attributed to dire circumstances in Honduras, including extreme violence, poverty, and climate change-induced drought. The situation highlights broader issues of climate change, government corruption, and gang rule.

The article discusses how colonialism has influenced the immigration policies of the United States and Australia, highlighting the harsh treatment of asylum seekers and refugees. It criticizes both countries for their cruel and racist policies, which are seen as a continuation of their colonial pasts. The article also points out the cooperation between these countries and poorer nations to enforce these policies, drawing parallels with European practices. The human and financial costs of these policies are emphasized, along with the lack of recognition of the refugees' plight caused by wars and regimes supported by these Western powers.

Australia faces a constitutional crisis as numerous parliamentarians, including high-profile figures like Barnaby Joyce, are found to hold dual citizenship, disqualifying them from office under the constitution. This crisis highlights the irony of Australian politicians' stringent policies on national identity and immigration, particularly against the backdrop of their rejection of Indigenous recognition and harsh treatment of refugees. The article critiques the narrow criteria for Australian citizenship and the exclusionary practices that have historically defined the nation.

Nancy Velasco, a woman mariachi from Ecatepec, Mexico, challenges the male-dominated mariachi scene. Despite facing discrimination as a lesbian and a woman, she continues to perform with her band, Mariachi Quetzal, in Mexico City. Nancy's journey includes overcoming personal hardships, such as being detained at the US border. Her dedication to her craft is evident as she balances her musical career with family life, striving for recognition and respect in her profession.

US Vice President Mike Pence confirmed the continuation of an Obama-era deal to resettle refugees detained by Australia in the US, despite expressing disapproval. The deal involves 1,250 refugees from Manus Island and Nauru, who have faced dire conditions and human rights abuses. Australian politicians welcomed Pence, seeing the deal as a way to evade responsibility for refugees. The future of the deal is uncertain, with questions about the resettlement process and strict vetting by the US. The policy of mandatory immigration detention in Australia, and the operation of detention centers by companies like Broadspectrum and Wilson Security, continue to pose human rights and financial concerns.

The article explores the author's experiences with women-only carriages on the Mexico City metro, highlighting the sense of safety and reduced harassment these spaces provide. It discusses the broader context of gender violence and feminist activism in Mexico City, questioning the effectiveness and inclusivity of such measures. The author suggests that similar experiments in Australian cities could offer temporary relief from male violence while broader cultural changes are pursued.

The article discusses the plight of casual academic staff at the University of Sydney, highlighting their lack of job security, benefits, and proper working conditions. It supports the National Tertiary Education Union's efforts to convert short-term contracts into continuing work and criticizes the university's reliance on casual contracts, which negatively impacts the quality of education and research. The article underscores the broader implications for higher education and advocates for fair pay and better conditions for all staff.