The Deadly Genius of Drug Cartels

A lucrative and thriving drug trade continues to plague this region primarily due to its proximity to drug markets in the United States. Although the United States receives illegal drugs from other places, most drugs cross the Mexican border to reach the U.S. marketplace.

Watch this video, which explains why the drug trade continues to be a violent and debilitating challenge for the Mexican people and government. The speaker identifies several familiar themes and contributing factors to the success of drug cartels, including income inequality and geography.

There is a feeling among many Mexicans (real and perceived) that government institutions have failed them and they are being left behind. In some cases, organized drug cartels fill the void by providing protection and jobs. Although this talk was presented in 2013, its message still resonates.