The presidency of Felipe Calderón in Mexico, spanning from 2006 to 2012, was a complex and tumultuous period in the country’s history. Calderón, a member of the National Action Party (PAN), assumed office after a highly contested electoral process. His presidency was marked by significant challenges, including the escalation of the drug war, economic struggles, and political polarization.
One of the defining features of Calderón’s presidency was his decision to launch a military-led campaign against the drug cartels, known as the “War on Drugs.” This effort was aimed at dismantling the powerful cartels that had come to dominate large swaths of Mexican territory. While the initiative was initially supported by many Mexicans, it ultimately led to a surge in violence, with cartel-related homicides increasing dramatically during Calderón’s tenure. The conflict also resulted in widespread human rights abuses, disappearances, and displacement of civilians.
Calderón’s administration also faced significant economic challenges. Mexico was heavily affected by the global financial crisis of 2008, which led to a sharp decline in economic growth, increased unemployment, and a rise in poverty. The government responded with a series of stimulus packages and fiscal reforms, but the recovery was slow and uneven. Additionally, Calderón’s attempts to reform the country’s energy sector, particularly the state-owned oil company Pemex, were met with resistance from opposition parties and unions.
Despite these challenges, Calderón’s presidency also saw some notable achievements. His government implemented a series of social programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, including the introduction of a conditional cash transfer program called “Oportunidades.” This initiative provided financial support to low-income families who kept their children in school and received regular health check-ups. Calderón also invested heavily in infrastructure development, including the construction of new roads, airports, and seaports.
In terms of international relations, Calderón’s presidency was marked by a significant shift in Mexico’s foreign policy. He sought to strengthen ties with the United States, particularly in the areas of trade and security. The Mérida Initiative, a bilateral agreement aimed at combating organized crime and drug trafficking, was launched during Calderón’s tenure. Mexico also became a more active participant in regional and international organizations, including the Organization of American States and the G20.
However, Calderón’s relationship with the United States was not without tension. The passage of Arizona’s SB 1070 law, which allowed law enforcement officers to demand proof of immigration status from individuals suspected of being undocumented, sparked widespread criticism in Mexico. Calderón condemned the law as “discriminatory” and “unacceptable,” and his government filed a brief with the US Supreme Court arguing that the law was unconstitutional.
As Calderón’s presidency drew to a close, Mexico was preparing for another highly contested electoral process. The 2012 presidential election saw the return of the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) to power, with Enrique Peña Nieto winning the presidency. Calderón’s legacy remains complex and contested, with some praising his efforts to tackle the drug cartels and implement social reforms, while others criticize his handling of the economy and the human rights abuses that occurred during his tenure.
Comparative Analysis: Calderón’s Presidency in Context
To understand the significance of Calderón’s presidency, it is essential to compare his administration with those of his predecessors and successors. The following table highlights some key indicators of Mexico’s economic and social performance during the presidencies of Vicente Fox (2000-2006), Felipe Calderón (2006-2012), and Enrique Peña Nieto (2012-2018):
| Indicator | Fox (2000-2006) | Calderón (2006-2012) | Peña Nieto (2012-2018) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GDP Growth Rate | 2.5% | 1.8% | 2.1% |
| Poverty Rate | 42.9% | 46.2% | 43.6% |
| Homicide Rate | 9.5 per 100,000 | 22.7 per 100,000 | 16.4 per 100,000 |
| Human Development Index | 0.76 | 0.78 | 0.79 |
This comparative analysis reveals that Calderón’s presidency was marked by significant challenges, including a decline in economic growth and an increase in poverty and violence. While his administration implemented some notable social programs, the overall impact of his policies on Mexico’s development was limited.
Expert Insight: The War on Drugs
Step-by-Step: Implementing Social Programs
One of the notable achievements of Calderón’s presidency was the implementation of social programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality. The following steps outline the key components of these initiatives:
FAQ Section
What was the main focus of Calderón’s presidency?
+The main focus of Calderón’s presidency was the War on Drugs, a military-led campaign aimed at dismantling the powerful drug cartels that had come to dominate large swaths of Mexican territory.
What were some of the notable achievements of Calderón’s presidency?
+Calderón’s presidency saw the implementation of social programs aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, including the introduction of a conditional cash transfer program called “Oportunidades.” His government also invested heavily in infrastructure development and strengthened ties with the United States.
What were some of the challenges faced by Calderón’s administration?
+Calderón’s administration faced significant challenges, including the escalation of the drug war, economic struggles, and political polarization. The conflict with the cartels led to a surge in violence, human rights abuses, and displacement of civilians. The government also struggled to respond to the global financial crisis and implement energy sector reforms.
