Violence and insecurity in Mexico have led to the closure of schools and the interruption of classes in at least 34 municipalities across seven states of the country during the first 20 weeks of the school year, according to Mexicanos Primero, a civil organization.
Among the reasons for school closures are nearby shootings, the placement of narcomantas, extortion of school authorities, clashes between organized crime groups, lack of transportation, robberies, and threats against teachers. The situation has forced schools to close their doors, reduce hours, or move classes to online mode in various municipalities of Sinaloa, Guerrero, Chiapas, Michoacán, Morelos, Tabasco, and Baja California.
According to Mexicanos Primero, Sinaloa has been one of the most affected states, especially due to the violence generated since September 2024 because of the war between 'Los Mayos' and 'Los Chapitos', two factions of the Sinaloa Cartel. In Culiacán, Eldorado, Concordia, Elota, San Ignacio, Navolato, Mazatlán, and Ahome, schools have been closed at least three times since the beginning of the school year. Last September, school absenteeism in Sinaloa exceeded 70%, but it decreased to 40% in October.
In Chiapas, school closures, absenteeism, and conflicts have been recorded in 17 municipalities, including the capital, Tuxtla Gutiérrez. On the other hand, in Baja California, the municipalities of Tijuana, Ensenada, and Tecate have had to close schools due to violence, while absenteeism has been recorded in Villahermosa, Tabasco. In general, Mexicanos Primero warns about the serious situation facing education in Mexico due to violence, which has led to the interruption of teaching and put the future of students and the country in jeopardy.
