Mexico's Gen Z Activists Confront Government Over Alleged Cartel Ties

Mexico's new generation of activists took to the streets in Mexico City on November 15, 2025, to protest what they call a narco-state, accusing the government of protecting cartels. The protesters, mostly from the Gen Z demographic, marched through the city's central square, waving signs and banners that read "No more impunity" and "Justice for the victims of organized crime." The protesters' demands include an end to the alleged protection of cartels by government officials and a greater commitment to addressing the root causes of organized crime in Mexico. According to the protesters, the government's failure to address the issue has led to a surge in violence and corruption, with many innocent civilians caught in the crossfire. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum responded to the protests by accusing the protesters of being backed by right-wing parties. "These protests are not about fighting against organized crime, but about promoting a divisive and polarizing agenda," she said in a statement. However, the protesters deny these allegations, saying that they are motivated by a desire to see justice and accountability in Mexico. The protests are the latest development in a long-standing issue in Mexico, where organized crime has been a major concern for decades. The country has struggled to address the problem, with many government officials accused of being complicit in the cartels' activities. The protesters are calling for greater transparency and accountability in government, as well as an end to the corruption and impunity that they say has allowed the cartels to thrive. The protests have also highlighted the growing divide between the government and the younger generation in Mexico. Many young people feel that the government is out of touch with their concerns and is more interested in protecting the interests of the cartels than in addressing the root causes of organized crime. The protests are seen as a manifestation of this growing discontent and a call for change. The current status of the protests is unclear, with reports of clashes between protesters and police in some areas. However, the protests are expected to continue in the coming days, with many activists vowing to keep up the pressure on the government until their demands are met. The government has promised to address the concerns of the protesters, but it remains to be seen whether this will be enough to satisfy the demands of the new generation of activists in Mexico.