Mexican President Incentivizes Gun Surrender with Cash Rewards
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has taken a bold step in the fight against violence in her country by launching a new campaign titled “Yes to Disarmament, Yes to Peace.” This initiative aims to reduce the number of weapons on Mexico’s streets by offering monetary incentives to individuals who anonymously surrender their firearms at designated drop-off locations, such as churches.
Under this disarmament plan, gun owners will receive 8,700 pesos ($430) for turning in a revolver, 25,000 pesos ($1,200) for an AK-47 rifle, and 26,450 pesos ($1,300) for a machine gun. The surrendered firearms will then be destroyed, ensuring they do not end up back in circulation.
The President emphasized the importance of this initiative as part of the government’s broader strategy to combat crime. Speaking at the launch event, Sheinbaum highlighted the need to address the root causes of violence, particularly in a country plagued by crime associated with the illegal drug trade. In 2023 alone, Mexico reported over 31,000 homicides, with 70% of them involving firearms.
Expanding on a Successful Local Program
While the disarmament plan has been in place in Mexico City since 2019, its recent nationwide rollout marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts. The program will now be coordinated by various ministries, including defense, interior, and public safety, with the support of religious authorities across the country.
The move comes as Mexico continues to grapple with the influx of U.S. firearms smuggled across the border, fueling organized crime and violence. Recent reports indicate that between 200,000 to half a million American guns enter Mexico annually, exacerbating the challenges faced by law enforcement.
Calling for International Cooperation
The alarming rate of arms trafficking from the United States to Mexico has prompted calls for greater collaboration between the two nations. American attorney Jonathan Lowy, who has been involved in efforts to stem the flow of weapons, emphasized the need to address the root causes of gun violence. He highlighted the interconnected nature of issues such as drug trafficking, migration, and organized crime, all of which are exacerbated by the illicit supply of firearms.
As Mexico takes decisive steps to tackle gun violence within its borders, the international community must work together to address the broader challenges posed by illegal arms trafficking. By incentivizing gun surrender and destruction, President Sheinbaum is setting a powerful example of proactive leadership in the fight for peace and security.
