By Fadlala Akabani Hneide
For decades, neoliberalism has dominated economic policy in Mexico and many countries around the world, guiding government decisions and business strategies. This approach promoted deregulation, market opening and liberalization, reduction of public expenditure, privatization of state-owned enterprises and reduction of the state's role in the economy. On the other hand, it has been widely discussed and questioned for its negative implications in widening the gap of economic and social inequality, concentrating wealth in the few through monopolies and oligarchies. In this context, the President of Mexico has created a new paradigm of economic development based on inclusion and sustainability, which he called: “Mexican Humanism for a Moral Economy.” This shift represents a significant break with previous economic policies.
In the 1980s, neoliberalism consolidated under the government in Mexico Miguel de la MadridHe implemented a series of structural reforms aimed at opening the economy to international trade and attracting foreign investment, deepened with the signing of NAFTA in 1994. These activities led to foreign investment, trade exchange and development of certain sectors. , contributed to greater economic and social inequality in terms of poverty and lack of opportunities, as well as job losses and national sovereignty in strategic industries.
In contrast, moral economics is proposed Andrés Manuel López Obrador It seeks to reorient economic policies towards social welfare and distributive justice. This approach is based on the principles of solidarity, social justice and well-being, recognizing the responsibility of the state as a regulator and promoter of inclusive economic development in all areas. Instead of privileging a few to maximize profits, the moral economy seeks to guarantee all Mexicans, especially the most vulnerable, access to decent living conditions, including education, health, housing, and employment.
In this sense, Mexican humanitarianism has been active in a series of social projects targeting the most disadvantaged groups in society: the elderly, single mothers, youth without education and employment opportunities, the disabled, and indigenous peoples. These programs include pensions, stipends and financial assistance to distribute wealth and income more equitably with the aim of reducing the gap between rich and poor.
One of the pillars of the moral economy is the fight against corruption and abuse of economic power, phenomena that undermine trust in public and private institutions. Corruption has been fought through austerity measures, digitization of procedures, transparency and accountability in government, as well as investigations and judicial processes against corrupt officials and businessmen. Moral economy implies a change in the relationship between the public and private sector, recognizing the importance of both in the economic development of the country. While neoliberalism tends to concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few, moral economics seeks to distribute the benefits of development more equitably and promote economic self-sufficiency at the local level. For foreign investment to succeed in Mexico, it must seek a philosophy compatible with the 4T, that is, away from the destruction of natural resources and poverty of workers, and access to comprehensive economic development nodes that provide communities and the environment around them. .
Despite the criticisms and challenges it faces, the paradigm shift towards a moral economy represents an opportunity to create a more just, inclusive and prosperous society. It is a national effort to eradicate deep social and economic inequalities. Although obstacles such as opposition from conservative sectors and vested interests need to be overcome, the participation of government, civil society and private initiative will pave the way towards a new model of economic development based on the values of solidarity and social justice. In this sense, the transition towards a moral economy is not only an economic issue, but also an ethical one, which defines the future of Mexico.
