Tag Archive for: Poverty In Mexico

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Immigrant Entrepreneurs: Coffee Shops Fight Global Poverty

immigrant entrepreneurs“Local businesses give warmth,” claim Coffee Links owners Leon and Ellie Araujo. “When you see [food] chains it feels like a cold city.” Leon and Ellie are proud owners of Coffee Links, an immigrant-owned business.

Ellie and Leon’s success story with their business is an important story to highlight. Originally from Mexico City, they immigrated to a new country in 2009 with their three kids. In 2013, they opened their first coffee shop, and today they have two thriving Coffee Links locations.

Entrepreneurship an underlying factor in fueling local economies. In other words, this is a pattern seen all over the world in assisting the economy. Entrepreneurs bring more than 50% to GDP and more than 60% of employment.

Furthermore, 25% of entrepreneurs are immigrant-owned and are positively influencing the economy, including job growth, unemployment, home values, and reduced vacancies.

Improving the Economy

Small businesses are a leading driver of poverty reduction. This is an alternative sector in socio-economic development that is alleviating poverty. According to the International Journal of Research Studies in Agricultural Sciences (IJRSAS), small businesses have had significant positive effects in both developing and developed countries.

Leon truly believes his business has contributed to the local economy, “The taxes give back to the community. All of it stays here in the community.”

When talking about why it is important to create local jobs, Leon Araujo answers, “The team is 50% of the support.” According to the Immigration Policy Center, immigrant entrepreneurs can contribute to local communities by modernizing neighborhoods and public areas, rejuvenating cities and towns.

More specifically, establishments like Coffee Links, a cafe/coffee shop, are the backbone of communities. Coffee Links, like many immigrant-owned businesses, attracts more local business and creates jobs. For example, it can generate direct hires, delivery drivers, cleaners, and suppliers. It can draw attention to collaborations with vendors, coffee roasters, florists, or bakers.

Barriers

“It is more difficult to be an immigrant entrepreneur,” says Leon, compared to being a native-born entrepreneur. Common barriers immigrant entrepreneurs face include language barriers and cultural differences. For example, learning a new language is difficult enough; trying to clearly communicate business ideas and follow regulations in a new language adds to the difficulty.

Leon claims there is one barrier immigrant entrepreneurs face that commonly goes unnoticed. It is a barrier to receiving financial assistance or loans. Leon Araujo is a legal resident of the country where he now lives, and he has had difficulty obtaining credit assistance from banks and credit unions, even though he is fully qualified. Many Hispanic entrepreneurs struggle to access financing and investors due to potential language and cultural barriers. According to The Statement, Hispanic immigrant entrepreneurs are more likely to rely on their savings than to take out a loan, seeking minimal funding. However, if they were to maximize their banking resources, they could potentially ”generate $1.4 trillion in additional revenue.”

Remittance

Many immigrant entrepreneurs send money to loved ones in their home countries. This is called remittance. Migrants who send money home have a significant impact on developing countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. In 2023, global remittances were estimated at over $800 billion.

“I do not send remittance to family in Mexico,” explains Leon, “I am invested in where I am now.” Although Leon may not send money home to family or friends, it is not uncommon for Mexican immigrant entrepreneurs to do so. Remittances sent home fund many Mexican households; about 4.5% of families rely on them. 

What does success look like now?

Mexican immigrant entrepreneurship, such as that of Leon and Ellie, strengthens local economies and contributes to global poverty reduction. Around the world, immigrants play a major role in launching new businesses, generating jobs, and stimulating local economic activity — all key components of long-term economic development. Additionally, remittances sent by migrant families provide more financial support to developing countries than traditional foreign aid, making them one of the most effective tools for reducing global poverty.

“When I first started the business, it was tough,” Leon says. He had to remember that success is not linear and there would be many ups and downs with the business. The most important thing was that he had to believe in himself.

Today, Leon has redefined what success means to him. He claims that he and his family have reached success and are open to anything that will expand the business. He continues to strive to develop a 3rd location

– Mireya Aguilar

Mireya is based in Layton, UT, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets for The Borgen Project. 

Photo: Flickr

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Turning Trash into Treasure: The 3D-Printed Houses in Mexico

3D-Printed Houses in MexicoMexico faces a severe housing crisis, with approximately 9 million homes requiring construction or major improvements to provide adequate shelter for its population. In Tabasco, an innovative project, through 3D-printed houses, is offering hope to families in Mexico who previously lived in makeshift shacks vulnerable to flooding and extreme weather.

Affordable 3D-Printed Houses in Mexico

ICON, partnering with the nonprofit New Story and Mexican social enterprise ÉCHALE, built 50 3D-printed homes in Nacajuca, Tabasco. These homes cost approximately $10,000 each for 500 square feet of living space. Traditional construction in Mexico costs between $50 and $100 per square foot for economic to medium-range homes, which would mean $25,000 to $50,000 for a 500-square-foot home.

This represents savings of 50% to 80% compared to traditional Mexican construction methods. Families pay just 400 Mexican pesos monthly—approximately $20—on zero-interest mortgages over seven years. This totals only $1,680 over the entire mortgage period. For the 50 families selected, who earn average monthly incomes of just $76.50, these payments represent about 26% of household income yet provide permanent, high-quality housing far superior to their previous conditions.

Pedro García Hernández, a 48-year-old carpenter earning 2,500 pesos monthly ($125), previously lived in a home with dirt floors where dust from his work coated everything. His daughter Yareli, studying to become a nurse, will inherit the home without financial burden.

Understanding Mexico’s Housing Emergency

Mexico faces a severe housing crisis with a qualitative housing deficit of more than 14 million homes. More than half of the population lives below the poverty line, limiting the ability of families to meet housing needs. Around one dwelling out of four has poor construction material for roofs, walls or floors, is overcrowded or lacks basic facilities. Approximately 17.8% of the population is considered vulnerable due to a lack of access to basic housing services, including water, drainage and electricity.

Regional disparities reveal stark inequalities. In 2022, Guerrero had the highest share of residents considered vulnerable due to inadequate housing, with more than 26% living in poor conditions or without enough space. In 2024, 48.6% of Chiapas residents lacked access to at least one basic service in their homes, compared with 47.4% in Guerrero and 46.7% in Oaxaca. Northern industrial centers like Nuevo León had the lowest rate at 3.2%.

The National Housing Commission (CONAVI) projects the deficit will reach 7.2 million to 10.5 million homes by 2050, requiring 700,000 new homes annually to meet demand. Current formal production delivers only 300,000 homes yearly, creating a widening gap. In response, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced a National Housing Program in October 2024 targeting 1 million new homes through 2030, backed by 600 billion pesos ($32.4 billion) in federal spending.

Revolutionary Construction Speed and Strength

The Vulcan II printer completes wall printing in 24 hours of active print time, with local workers adding roofs, windows, doors, plumbing and electrical systems. Total construction takes one to two weeks versus six to 12 months for traditional methods. The first two homes were unveiled in December 2019, and by November 2021, 65 families had moved in.

Each home measures approximately 500 square feet and features two bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom, plus indoor plumbing—something many residents did not previously have. Each 3D-printed home has curved walls and lattices to improve airflow and a reinforced foundation to help withstand earthquakes. Nacajuca was hit with a magnitude 7.4 earthquake after the houses were built, and the homes remained standing without damage.

The homes were designed to withstand seismic activity and prevent flooding. Each home can withstand hurricanes and is approved for seismic activity—essential for Tabasco, where low-income residents often live in shacks that flood during the rainy season. The materials are more rugged than standard construction in the area and better able to withstand disasters. The concrete construction provides insulation that keeps homes cooler indoors, helping lower utility costs.

Community Investment and Future Growth

The local Tabasco government donated land for the project and committed to providing the required infrastructure, including electricity and roads. The project also includes plans for roads, a school, a soccer field, a market and a library. The homes were granted to families living in extreme poverty and unsafe shelter. Property titles were signed to women in households to help protect family stability. The partnership selected families by surveying more than 500 households with local officials, prioritizing Indigenous populations historically left out of government programs.

Looking Ahead

The 3D-printed houses in Tabasco, Mexico, demonstrate that cutting-edge technology can serve those most in need. The partnership with ICON and the use of 3D-printing technology allows New Story to reach more families faster while improving quality and design flexibility. The hope is that this catalytic research and development project will influence the sector as a whole, offering a scalable solution to provide families with safe, affordable and dignified housing.

– Jawad Noori

Jawad is based in London, UK and focuses on Technology and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Labor Reforms and Poverty Reduction in Mexico

Poverty Reduction in MexicoSince 2012, Mexico has enacted a series of major labor reforms that have created a sustained reduction in poverty. Subsequent labor reforms between 2018 and 2022 have lifted millions out of poverty. According to a World Bank report that cites figures from the National Council for the Evaluation of Social Development Policy (CONEVAL), from 2016 to 2022, poverty in Mexico declined from 43.2% to 36.3%. Over the same period, the share of people living in monetary poverty, based on the national poverty line, dropped from 50.8% to 43.5%. Extreme monetary poverty also decreased, falling from 14.9% to 12.1%.

These changes were largely due to labor reforms in Mexico such as raising the minimum wage, ending exploitative outsourcing practices and strengthening labor protections. This shows that strong and sustainable structural labor reforms can reduce poverty and ensure significant improvement in the incomes and social rights of the Mexican people.

Labor Reforms and Poverty Reduction in Mexico

The most significant labor reform in Mexico was raising the minimum wage. According to a paper in the Journal of Development Studies, which explores the effect of minimum wage on poverty levels in Mexico, the first real increase was in 2019. That year, it rose by 16% across the country, except in municipalities near the U.S.–Mexico border, where it jumped by 100%.

Between 2019 and 2022, Mexico substantially increased the national minimum wage by 65% in real terms. According to a recent study by Mexico’s National Minimum Wage Commission, these wage policies directly and indirectly impacted poverty reduction. The researchers found that for every 10% increase in the minimum wage, multidimensional poverty fell by approximately 3.6%. Overall, the study estimates that 4.1 million people—out of a total 5.1 million who exited poverty—did so specifically because of the minimum wage increases, accounting for a 23.7% reduction in national poverty during this period.

Outsourcing Employment

Crucially, the wage hikes boosted labor income without causing significant job losses, reinforcing the policy’s role as a key driver of poverty reduction rather than economic disruption. The second major labor reform was the ban on exploitative outsourcing practices, significantly reducing poverty and strengthening labor rights in Mexico. Enacted in 2021, the ban led to a 73% drop in outsourcing and a surge in direct hiring. Average annual wages rose by 10% in the first year, while the wage gap relative to productivity narrowed by 27%.

Insourced workers saw salaries jump by 87%, social security and benefits rise by 30% and profit sharing grew by 62%, directly improving living standards. Importantly, these gains occurred without reducing employment or output, showing that the reform strengthened worker rights while protecting jobs. Workers who had faced the most exploitation benefited the most, demonstrating the reform’s effectiveness in improving wages and livelihoods across Mexico’s labor force.

Governance and Implementation

The Mexican government enforced the outsourcing ban through a comprehensive regulatory framework. Companies providing specialized services had to register in a public registry, proving compliance with tax and social security obligations, sharing profits with workers and renewing their registration every three years. Enforcement grew stricter: employers and staffing agencies became responsible for payroll taxes and social security for subcontracted workers, inspections were mandatory and firms faced larger penalties for violations.

To close loopholes, the reform aligned multiple existing laws and fostered coordination between government departments. Previously, outsourced workers had to be transferred to direct employment within a three-month, government-monitored period, ensuring compliance and protecting labor rights. These measures ensured compliance with the law and helped sustain the new labor protections. They also led to a significant drop in exploitation and improved working conditions nationwide.

Conclusion

Mexico’s experience shows that structural labor reforms, combined with strong governance and effective implementation, can transform poverty and inequality. The government created a labor market that supports social and economic inclusion by prioritizing worker rights and enforcing compliance. These achievements confirm that ambitious, well-enforced reforms can produce tangible, lasting improvements in the lives of millions, setting an example for other countries seeking to reduce poverty through labor policy.

– Akash Ramaswamy

Akash is based in Ontario, Canada and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Chichen Itza: Reducing Poverty in Mexico

Reducing Poverty in MexicoChichen Itza is a pre-Hispanic Mayan archaeological site in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It preserves the rich history of the Mayan civilization through its remarkable stone monuments and artistry, created by the Maya and Toltec tribes. Dating back to around 415–455 A.D., Chichen Itza is recognized globally as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. Beyond its historical value, it plays a crucial modern role in reducing poverty, driving economic growth and globalizing Mexico, particularly within the Yucatán region.

Economic Benefits and Poverty Reduction

Millions of tourists visit Chichen Itza annually, generating substantial income for local communities and Mexico’s national economy. In 2023, with the reopening of previously restricted areas for archaeological research, the site saw a 12% increase in visitors, totaling more than a million tourists. This influx supports Mexico’s post-pandemic recovery and strengthens the tourism industry.

The constant flow of visitors creates steady employment in hospitality, transportation, food services and local craft markets. These jobs provide sustainable income opportunities for families, helping reduce poverty and improve living standards in nearby communities. In addition to visiting the archaeological site, many tour operators now offer full-day excursions that include nearby destinations such as Valladolid, a colonial city in the Yucatán Peninsula.

These tours also feature visits to cenotes and natural sinkholes where visitors can swim and enjoy lunch prepared by local families. These tours promote small businesses, local restaurants and artisan markets, ensuring that tourism revenue is distributed more evenly across the region. Local guides who lead these trips share cultural knowledge and Mayan traditions, creating meaningful exchanges between visitors and residents while strengthening community identity and heritage.

Through these combined tourism experiences, Chichen Itza attracts international visitors and stimulates a regional economic ecosystem that uplifts surrounding towns and rural populations.

Cultural Preservation and Local Empowerment

Despite its benefits, Chichen Itza’s global popularity also presents challenges. Much of the site’s revenue flows to the federal government rather than Mayan communities. Additionally, some Indigenous residents have faced displacement due to tourism development. However, many have adapted by creating independent income sources, selling handmade crafts, guiding tours and educating visitors about their heritage.

Mayan artisans and entrepreneurs preserve their cultural legacy and promote national pride through these efforts. Visitors, in turn, gain a deeper understanding of Mexico’s Indigenous history, fostering global respect and cultural appreciation. Integrating traditional Mayan cuisine, language and artistry into tourism experiences has also helped safeguard intangible heritage while creating new forms of economic empowerment.

Regional Development and Sustainability

The success of Chichen Itza has also inspired infrastructure projects like the Tren Maya, a new railway system designed to improve accessibility across the Yucatán Peninsula. This initiative aims to manage overcrowding, boost tourism and expand economic opportunities for nearby towns.

Importantly, the Tren Maya project emphasizes sustainability. Its eco-friendly design reduces carbon emissions and supports environmentally responsible tourism, aligning economic development with long-term environmental goals. It enhances regional mobility by connecting cities like Cancún, Tulum, Mérida and Valladolid. It increases visitor flow to the peninsula’s local businesses, artisans and cultural centers.

Conclusion

Chichen Itza’s continued global appeal demonstrates how cultural heritage and tourism can drive economic resilience. By generating jobs, supporting local entrepreneurship and inspiring sustainable development, this ancient site contributes directly to reducing poverty in Mexico. Through guided tours that extend to surrounding cities and cenotes, tourism revenue reaches even more communities, strengthening the Yucatán Peninsula’s economy and preserving its cultural heritage.

Chichen Itza stands as both a monument to the country’s past and a catalyst for its future prosperity.

– Miranda Yacynych

Miranda is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Business and Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Vocational Education in Mexico

Vocational Education in MexicoVocational education and training (VET) centers play a critical role in building the skilled workforce in Mexico. These centers help students and workers gain technical knowledge that adapts to the rapidly changing global economy. Beyond improving job opportunities, investments in VET directly contribute to poverty reduction by increasing employability, raising household incomes and creating more equitable access to education.

While challenges remain, efforts from organizations such as the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the National Institute for Standardization and Certification of Labor Competencies (CONOCER) and German cooperation through Sparkassenstiftung show how VET centers are reducing barriers, especially for women. These initiatives are also creating new pathways out of poverty.

Skill Gaps in Mexico’s Workforce

Flexibility, adaptability and technical skills are key to Mexico’s vocational training programs. In the past, government-driven policies often limited the scope of workers’ training, restricting them to narrow skills tied to specific industries. This prevented workers from finding higher-paying jobs and slowed the country’s ability to meet global market demands. Today, VET centers address these gaps by equipping workers with diverse, transferable skills.

There is still a gender gap in vocational education enrollment. Social barriers and perceptions that technical training is “not for women” create unequal access to opportunities. Encouraging women’s participation strengthens the labor force, increases household incomes and promotes social equality.

Solutions Driving Change

During the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) reforms, Mexico’s certification system shifted from rigid government-imposed curricula to training models supported by companies and industries. This change expanded access to certifications and improved job placement opportunities by making training more relevant to labor market needs.

Expanding the Dual Vocational System

German development organizations such as GIZ are collaborating with Mexican schools to expand dual VET programs. These combine classroom instruction with workplace training, giving students both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Sparkassenstiftung reports that thousands of young Mexicans have already been trained through this system. Benefits include higher employment rates and stronger partnerships between schools and employers.

The Impact of VET Centers in Mexico

  • They prepare the workforce to compete globally.
  • They provide jobs that strengthen economic stability and equality.
  • Partnerships with global organizations help reduce poverty and mobilize Mexico’s economy.

Mexico has more than 2,500 institutions dedicated to higher education, with approximately 20% of lower secondary students enrolled in VET pathways. By expanding access and making training more inclusive, VET centers are becoming a powerful tool in reducing poverty and improving social mobility.

Conclusion

Vocational education and training centers in Mexico are more than just schools. They are engines of economic growth and social progress. By investing in VET, Mexico is not only building a skilled, adaptable and inclusive workforce but also creating a long-term pathway to poverty reduction. Each investment in VET translates into more opportunities for employment, higher wages and a stronger safety net for vulnerable communities.

These programs prepare students for today’s labor market while giving them the resilience to thrive in tomorrow’s global economy, ensuring that progress reaches families across the country.

– Miranda Yacynych

Miranda is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Business and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Mexico’s Fight Against Poverty: Wage Increases and Welfare

Mexico’s Fight Against PovertyMexico is a country in North America often associated with culture, tourism and economic inequality. In recent years, though, the nation has achieved one of its most significant breakthroughs: a historic reduction in poverty. Due to government-led programs such as wage increases and social program expansions, millions of people have been lifted above the poverty line.

While there is still much more work to do, Mexico’s progress shows how much effort can make a difference in the global fight against poverty and inequality.

A Historic Decline

Between 2022 and 2024, more than 8.3 million people were lifted out of poverty. According to AP News, this was an 18% drop nationally and the extreme poverty rate declined by nearly 23%. A country long affected by economic inequality, the turnaround in the last decade has been unprecedented.

Since 2018, more than 13.4 million Mexicans have escaped poverty, a 26% overall reduction. Experts attribute this success to higher wages, increased welfare programs and the government focusing more on vulnerable populations in both rural and urban areas.

Wages at the Center

One of the biggest policies behind the shift is the increase in the national minimum wage. It reached an all-time high of $20.76 per day in 2025. For decades, Mexican workers’ earnings failed to keep pace with inflation.

This resulted in much of the working class being stuck in cycles of poverty despite constantly working and contributing to the growing economy. Former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador made it a priority to increase wages to reverse that issue. Since the increase, many families have gained reliable and consistent access to food, school and health care, leading to lower child malnutrition rates.

Welfare Programs

Along with the wage hikes were expanded social programs. Senior citizens now have universal pensions, Indigenous communities have targeted assistance and low-income students are eligible for stipends. These programs have created safety nets that have helped reduce child labor, increased school enrollment and improved access to medical care.

The “Sembrando Vida” (Sowing Life) minimum wage. directly supports farmers by paying them to plant trees and restore lost land. This has given rural workers a steady income. It has also addressed environmental concerns. Other programs targeted the younger population, offering scholarships to encourage education and raise retention rates.

Global Context and Looking Ahead

Mexico’s progress reflects a broader Latin American trend. Other countries, like Brazil, have had success with similar programs. Mexico’s model adds another layer, coupling wage increases with welfare expansion. This dual approach could become the blueprint for other struggling nations looking at how to address their own poverty.

Mexico’s path has continually produced lasting benefits: millions of healthier families, more educated individuals and more financial stability. Experts say these improvements are not only a benefit for households but could also strengthen democratic stability because citizens feel supported by their government.

Mexico’s story proves that targeted policy enhancements can directly and quickly cause change. A country plagued by inequality has shown that this progress is both a milestone and a challenge for its future leaders to follow suit: continue building and adding to the legacy of one of Mexico’s biggest fights against poverty in history.

– Brody L. Gates

Brody is based in Fort Worth, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Telemedicine in Mexico Broadens Health Care

Telemedicine in MexicoThe health care system in Mexico is notably flawed. Only 77% of Mexico’s 131 million citizens have access to health care coverage and nearly half of the health spending in the country comes out of the pockets of citizens, not the government. Mexico only allocates 5.7% of its GDP to health care-related costs, far below the average of 9.2% from the other 38 countries that make up the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This leaves the system underfunded and underresourced, particularly in rural locations.

Telemedicine, the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients, is helping fill in the gaps of Mexico’s health care system by making medical advice more accessible to poor and rural communities throughout the country.

Bringing Health Care to Rural Mexican Communities

Founded in 2014, 19Labs aims to make health care more accessible worldwide to people in rural communities. Its GALE platform is a “smart first-aid kit” that is affordable and accessible and it brings the full clinic experience to those unable to go to one in person. The organization has helped people in Guyana, the United States and Lebanon and now it’s expanding its reach in Mexico.

Earlier this year, 19Labs launched a new branch of its telemedicine program in Yucatán, Mexico, to bring health care services to the underserved rural communities in the area. 19Labs GALE eClinics have connected people who had previously faced distance barriers to services such as medical consultations, diagnostic tools and specialist advice and treatments. Using tools such as Zoom and EchoNous, people can now access effective health care treatment from the comfort of their own communities and without the burden of extensive travel.

In less than a year, the impact and benefits of the GALE eClinics have already been seen. In Comunidad Col, a child who was previously diagnosed with a heart murmur was assessed by the GALE eClinic and appropriately diagnosed with and treated for allergic rhinitis. A 6-month-old child in Noh Bec received an accurate diagnosis and treatment from a chronic dermatitis specialist, significantly improving the child’s condition and quality of life.

Maria Magdalena Chan Uluac, Director of the Noh Bec community clinic, credited the GALE eClinics for helping the lives of those in the Yucatán area: “We are at least three hours from Mérida, where the specialists are, so GALE has been a major financial and logistical relief for our patients. This has encouraged seeking medical treatment sooner instead of waiting until symptoms become critical.”

Telemedicine for Mexicans Abroad

MiSalud is a startup that connects Mexicans working abroad to health care. MiSalud’s mission is to provide services such as basic health care, preventative care, nutrition coaching, chronic condition management and mental health support via video, phone or SMS chat. The company also does not charge its users a co-pay and has extended hours for its virtual clinic.

MiSalud primarily works with agricultural, construction, hospitality and manufacturing companies where employees struggle to access health care because of language barriers or a lack of time to make it to a clinic or hospital. Employees of these companies receive MiSalud’s resources as an employer-sponsored benefit regardless of their insurance or full-time or part-time status. The coverage also extends to up to three family members.

Taylor Farms, a major global purveyor of packaged salads and cut vegetables, is one company that partners with MiSalud. Amy Taylor, the leader of Taylor Farms’ wellness initiative, reported that about 5,600 of the company’s 6,400 employees have signed up for MiSalud’s services. More than 2,000 of these employees have utilized the resource at least once.

MiSalud says that 40% of its users have said they would have ignored their health concerns or waited until they could travel back to Mexico to see a doctor without the platform. The company also reports that its users have seen a 56% improvement in depression scores and a one-level drop in diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure risk. In addition, users experienced a 24% improvement in chronic condition management and an average weight loss of 16 pounds.

More Ways to Access Telemedicine in Mexico

MedicallHome is another company working to make health care in Mexico more affordable and accessible. It provides 24/7 telephone access to licensed doctors, costing just $2 to $5 a month. Beyond medical care, the company also offers life insurance and vision and dental coverage.

Medicall is staffed by more than 60 practitioners, nutritionists and psychologists, each with at least two years of clinical experience and required to practice outside the call center to maintain their skills. The center handles about 500,000 calls annually, resolving 62% of cases over the phone and referring the rest for in-person treatment. Customers also have access to a provider network that includes primary care and specialist clinics, laboratories, pharmacies and hospitals.

Conclusion

Telemedicine is a growing field in Mexico and with widespread smartphone adoption by Mexican citizens and improving internet access, it is expected to become more popular. As of 2024, 68% of Mexicans reported preferring video and telephone consultations due to convenience, reduced travel costs and fewer wait times than in-person clinics. Since only half of the population has consistent medical care, the growth of free and accessible telemedicine in Mexico is significant and a welcome change to the health care system.

– Hannah Fruehstorfer

Hannah is based in Pittsburgh, PA, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Partners of the Americas is Fighting Global Poverty

How Partners of the Americas is Fighting Global Poverty Partners of the Americas is bridging gaps in opportunity and access across borders and cultures. This organization has dedicated decades to empowering communities in countries like Bolivia and Mexico through education, economic development and public health initiatives. The organization’s people-to-people partnerships have developed sustainable change for individuals in developing countries. It continues to connect volunteers, experts and funding to fight and promote equality, with various local leaders serving as the driving force behind it all.

About Partners of the Americas

Partners of the Americas is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization made up of volunteers and development officials committed to serving people in developing countries. It was founded in 1964, inspired by the Alliance for Progress initiative launched by the United States (U.S.) President John F. Kennedy. The organization’s reason behind forming partnerships is to “create opportunity, foster understanding and solve real-life problems” for those in need. It has established international offices across the globe to achieve those results, with offices opening in regions like the Caribbean and Central America.

Partners of the Americas Projects

Partners of the Americas performs several initiatives across the globe to help empower communities in developing countries. These initiatives focused on strengthening agricultural productivity and sustainability, empowering people and institutions to create sustainable solutions to meet local needs, promoting education in developing countries and strengthening labor rights abroad to ensure fair competition for workers and businesses.

These initiatives have proved effective, each with success stories in countries across the globe. Examples include the Empowering Women in the Mexican Workplace project, which seeks to improve labor conditions for women in Mexico and the 100,000 Strong in the Americas Innovation Fund, which aims to expand opportunities for higher education institutions to launch innovative student exchange and training programs.

The organization also conducts lobbying initiatives, aiming to educate the Members of Congress and the executive branch on its work and impact across the Americas. Partners of the Americas worked with Bridge Consulting in 2024 to achieve this feat and properly educate the Members of Congress and the executive branch.

The Impact

Partners of the Americas has made a notable impact in empowering communities across the globe for nearly six decades. Its wide-reaching programs have supported thousands of individuals in gaining access to education, food security, economic opportunity and fair labor practices, all while centering the voices and leadership of local partners. The organization continues to make an impact worldwide through its 60 chapters established in more than 30 countries. It brings together communities, individuals, organizations and volunteers across borders to serve people in developing countries. 

Getting Involved

Partners of the Americas is actively creating ways for individuals to become involved in its organization. The organization has volunteer opportunities for those who want to get involved, hosting events to engage with their members and stakeholders and even has internship positions for those wanting to make a change in the Americas. With a legacy rooted in service and collaboration, Partners of the Americas remains a beacon of hope for communities striving toward a better future. Its work continues to prove that lasting impact begins with people coming together across borders to create meaningful change.

– Jaden Hartfield

Jaden is based in Charlotte, NC, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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How Mexico’s Plant-Food Industry Is Fighting Poverty

Mexico’s Plant-Food IndustryMexico is a global leader in plant-based living, boasting the world’s second-largest population adhering to a plant-based diet. Nearly 20% of Mexico’s population identifies as either vegan or vegetarian. The rise of Mexico’s plant-based food sector is driven by young people younger than 35, who comprise the most significant percentage of the nation’s vegans and vegetarians.

Plant-based diets can improve the health of Mexicans while also creating job opportunities and ending hunger among those most in need. In recognition, in April 2024, Mexico enacted the General Law on Appropriate and Sustainable Food (LGASS). This aimed to promote the consumption of healthy foods, though not necessarily vegan foods and ensure sustainable food production.

The law called upon the Secretariat of Health to establish regional food baskets, prioritizing locally or regionally produced foods derived from sustainable production. This naturally emphasizes fruits, vegetables and traditional plant-based staples.

Improving People’s Health

Diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol and obesity all contribute to an early death. People can mitigate these ailments with a healthy diet of vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Plant-based diets of these foods allow people to get a rich assortment of vitamins and minerals.

One common misconception is that animal protein is the only source of protein. Plant-based diets provide plenty of protein, including foods like peanut butter, tempeh and beans. Mexicans eat beans multiple times daily, using them as a versatile ingredient in many dishes. This high consumption of beans, among other plant-based meat alternatives, ensures that vegans and vegetarians in Mexico always have a source of high-protein foods.

Another common misconception is that plant-based diets cause vitamin deficiencies. Except for vitamin B12, a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains provides every vitamin a person needs. A vitamin B12 supplement is strongly recommended for people interested in switching to a plant-based diet. However, it’s worth noting that one in six meat-eaters will also experience vitamin B12 deficiency anyway, so a supplement is recommended either way.

New Economic Opportunities for Mexican Workers

New plant-based food companies are rapidly expanding across Mexico. They actively create crucial job opportunities for workers and skillfully leverage Mexico’s vast network of produce farmers to develop innovative products. Mexico already boasts a significant export market for fruits and vegetables and global companies are increasingly recognizing and investing in this burgeoning sector, further solidifying its economic potential within the nation’s borders.

Mexico’s plant-food industry is impacting poverty by generating new, high-paying manufacturing jobs that offer upward mobility for individuals who might otherwise have few options for stable employment. Food manufacturing is a critical driver of jobs throughout Mexico and the accelerating growth of the plant-based food sector holds immense potential to expand employment opportunities significantly for people living in impoverished areas.

Increased Food Availability and Ending Hunger

A common misconception suggests that plant-based diets are more expensive, but the evidence strongly indicates otherwise; plant-based eating can significantly save people money compared to meat-rich diets. This is particularly true for low-income communities, which often consume more plant-based foods due to their lower cost. Increasing access to diverse plant-based options in these communities would empower families to achieve well-balanced diets without financial strain.

As incomes rise, people tend to eat more meat, a trend seen in high-income countries like the U.S. and China, where meat is consumed at nearly every meal. The plant-based food industry is working to counter this by promoting the benefits of plant-based diets in low-income communities.

Respecting Cultural Differences and Individual Beliefs

Mexico’s growing plant-food industry offers undeniable benefits, holding the potential to alleviate poverty and uplift disadvantaged communities toward greater prosperity. This burgeoning industry promotes healthier lifestyles and fosters sustainable economic development. It creates new jobs and investment opportunities across the nation’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Beyond economic advantages, the health benefits of a plant-based diet impact individuals regardless of their income.

– Jeff Mathwig

Jeff is based in Philadelphia, PA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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Combating Poverty in Mexico

Combating Poverty in Mexico Mexico has seen a decline in poverty in recent years. At its peak, the rate reached 43.2% in 2016 but fell to 36.3% by 2022. These signs of progress show that the country is tackling poverty in a positive way. Yet, one problem is that the population living in extreme poverty has gone up in recent years, with additional factors like access to health care and education also rising. Many organizations have stepped up to address this issue, helping families in rural areas of Mexico gain access to clean water, education and health care.

Policies and Governmental Strategies

Recent efforts to combat poverty in Mexico focus on inclusive and sustainable growth, according to the World Bank. Its analysis shows several areas for improvement in long-term poverty reduction. The first is female employment. Increasing the employment rate for women in the workforce contributes to economic development for the country.

Rural development is also a key factor in combating poverty. Improving rural infrastructure, education and health care services is essential to address regional disparities. Additionally, social protection is another element the government can tackle to help improve the situation. Strengthening benefits with worker protections can make economic growth more inclusive. As the World Bank notes, “social assistance reforms can redesign some programs to increase their progressivity and sufficiency,” enhancing effectiveness in combating poverty.

An overlooked aspect of why poverty is so complex in Mexico is the major climate events across the country. According to the World Bank, about 33% of poverty in Mexico is correlated with severe weather events. Hurricanes, droughts and floods affect those living in vulnerable conditions, further worsening their situations. Investing in more resilient infrastructure, such as durable housing and clean water systems, is a priority.

Organizations Addressing Poverty in Mexico

Several nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are working to combat poverty in Mexico through multiple projects and initiatives. Esperanza Contigo focuses on children living in poverty, more specifically in rural areas. According to a report by the organization, more than 20 million children in Mexico live below the poverty line. This is due to reasons such as the minimum wage for a worker in Mexico being about $8.50 a day and rural schools being under-resourced, both of which fuel the cycle of poverty in the country.

Esperanza Contigo works to raise awareness, provide resources and advocate for change to improve the lives of children living in poverty. The organization has seen results in its work throughout Mexico, including helping abandoned children in the city of Tijuana. There, it provides foster care and offers shelter, education and health care programs. The organization states that “the best way to tackle child poverty is to be prepared.” 

CHOICE Humanitarian carries out locally led projects that address poverty in Mexico, mainly in rural areas. Its work includes increasing livestock and promoting agricultural sustainability. The organization helps families build stable food sources and income through efforts such as constructing wells and water filters. By doing so, CHOICE Humanitarian teaches communities the skills needed to continue these practices on their own. The organization’s activities support economic development, with the goal of combating poverty in this way.

In its 2024 annual report, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) outlined efforts to improve child nutrition, access to early childhood education and social inclusion. In cooperation with the Mexican government, UNICEF and the legislative branch are working to integrate child-centered initiatives into national planning. The organization has already reported progress in key areas such as nutrition, well-being and inclusion. 

Looking Ahead

Combating poverty in Mexico remains a challenge. It is not just one aspect that must be addressed, but multiple dimensions of poverty at the same time. This complexity has drawn many organizations to take part in tackling the problem. With projects underway to support people in need and with cooperation from the national government, Mexico is laying the groundwork for progress in combating poverty.

– Pablo Roque

Pablo is based in McAllen, TX, USA and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr