Mexico Overhauls Government Structure in Anti-Corruption Push

Mexico overhauls its government structure with the creation of new secretariats focused on anti-corruption, women's rights, science, technology, and digital transformation. The reforms aim to modernize the administration and address pressing challenges.

Mexico Overhauls Government Structure in Anti-Corruption Push
Mexico's government just got a major upgrade! New secretariats, new hopes, and hopefully fewer scandals. 💻👩‍⚖️🚀

In a legislative move, Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies has approved a comprehensive reform of the Organic Law of the Federal Public Administration, heralding the creation of three new secretariats and a cutting-edge Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency. The reforms, initiated by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo in collaboration with legislators from the PAN, PVEM, and PRI parties, aim to modernize governance, enhance transparency, and address critical societal issues.

The bill, now awaiting Senate approval, represents a transformative step for the Mexican government, addressing the nation’s pressing needs through structural innovation. Its provisions include the establishment of the Anti-Corruption and Good Government Secretariat, the Secretariat for Women, and the Secretariat of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation. The reforms also encompass a linguistic shift, replacing references to “President of the United Mexican States or Federal Executive” with the more inclusive term “person in charge of the Federal Executive.”

The newly proposed Anti-Corruption and Good Government Secretariat embodies the administration’s commitment to transparency and public integrity. It is tasked with an ambitious portfolio: overseeing transparency initiatives, safeguarding personal data, modernizing public sector operations, and ensuring accountability. By focusing on public contracts and government oversight, the Secretariat seeks to instill confidence in public administration and reduce corruption—a persistent challenge in the country.

Equally groundbreaking is the creation of the Secretariat for Women, designed to spearhead a national policy for women, adolescents, and girls. Its mandate includes promoting gender equality, combating violence against women, and implementing the Care System to support families and caregivers. The move underscores Mexico’s renewed dedication to advancing women’s rights, a critical issue in a nation where gender-based violence remains a pressing concern.

The Secretariat of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation aims to position Mexico as a global leader in research and technological development. Its responsibilities include coordinating scientific and humanistic endeavors, fostering innovation, and enhancing international collaboration. The Secretariat seeks to democratize access to scientific advancements and cultivate a highly skilled workforce to drive Mexico’s strategic projects forward.

Perhaps most emblematic of Mexico’s modernization efforts is the establishment of the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency. This agency will leverage cutting-edge technology to streamline citizen engagement and bolster digital rights. By introducing a unique digital authentication mechanism linked to the Unique Population Registry Key, it promises a more secure and efficient interaction between citizens and government institutions.

Beyond creating new institutions, the reform package introduces pivotal changes across existing ministries. Adjustments in the Secretariats of Finance, Public Credit, Security, Environment, Health, and others aim to align these entities with Mexico’s evolving priorities. By integrating advanced technologies and adopting inclusive language, the reforms signify a shift toward a more modern and equitable public administration.

The sweeping changes reflect President Sheinbaum’s vision of a responsive and forward-thinking government. “This reform lays the foundation for a more inclusive and effective governance model,” she stated during the legislative debate. Critics, however, have raised concerns about potential overlaps in responsibilities and the financial implications of expanding the bureaucratic framework.

Despite these challenges, proponents argue that the long-term benefits—ranging from enhanced transparency to societal equity—far outweigh the initial costs. As the bill moves to the Senate, the debate over its implications is expected to intensify.

Overhaul Aims to Streamline Governance

Among the most notable provisions was the amendment to Article 30 Bis, which expands the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection’s role to include spearheading policies on social prevention of violence and coordinating crime prevention efforts. Proposed by Deputy Jessica Saiden Quiroz of the Morena party, the amendment underscores the urgency of addressing emotional violence, the most prevalent form of violence in Mexico, affecting 49% of individuals.

“Emotional violence is an epidemic that demands immediate and comprehensive intervention,” Saiden Quiroz stated, urging for robust public policies to dismantle systemic cycles of abuse. The amendment saw vigorous debate, with deputies from the PT and Morena parties advocating for its inclusion, while PAN Deputy Carmen Rocío González Alonso raised concerns about feasibility and focus. Ultimately, the amendment was approved with an overwhelming 388 votes in favor, reflecting broad political support for a stronger government role in combating violence.

The reforms also ratified Article 42 Bis, formally establishing the Secretariat for Women. With 341 votes in favor and zero against, the Secretariat was granted a sweeping mandate to address gender-based violence, promote gender equality, and oversee the transfer of functions from the National Commission to Prevent and Eradicate Violence against Women.

This structural consolidation, which will take effect by the end of 2024, aims to eliminate redundancy, improve efficiency, and ensure budgetary sufficiency. “We want to avoid duplication of functions and guarantee that resources are used effectively,” stated Deputy Rafaela Vianey García Romero, who proposed amendments to the transition framework. By reallocating resources and repealing the 2009 decree that created the Commission, the Secretariat for Women is positioned to assume a central role in advancing women’s rights in Mexico.

Another pillar of the reform package was the creation of the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency under Article 42 Ter. Approved with 321 votes in favor and 108 against, the agency is envisioned as a catalyst for modernizing public services and enhancing digital accessibility. The Fourteenth Transitory Article, amended by Deputy GarcĂ­a Romero, ensures a seamless integration of resources and responsibilities, emphasizing efficiency and resource optimization.

The Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency will focus on delivering technological solutions that empower citizens, streamline government processes, and fortify digital security. As Mexico navigates an increasingly interconnected world, the agency’s establishment signals the country’s commitment to embracing digital innovation.

These legislative changes reflect a broader strategy to streamline governance and address systemic challenges, including violence, gender inequality, and bureaucratic inefficiencies. The transition periods built into the reform package aim to provide a measured rollout, ensuring that Mexico’s public administration adapts effectively.

However, some concerns linger. Critics of the reforms, particularly regarding the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency, warn of potential over-centralization and the risk of underfunding ambitious projects. Additionally, while the consolidation of responsibilities within the Secretariat for Women promises efficiency, it also raises questions about whether the new structure will meet the increasing demands placed on it.

The reforms now head to the Senate, where further deliberations are expected. While the legislative process has illuminated divides over priorities and implementation, the overwhelming support for many provisions underscores a shared recognition of the need for change.