Zapatista Indigenous Movement Dissolves Autonomous Municipalities Amid Increased Gang Violence in Mexico

Evolving security situation prompts change, with increased isolation, possible electoral motivations, and uncontrolled gang violence linked to Mexican political parties, the tourism industry, and government challenges.

• The Zapatista indigenous rebel movement has announced the dissolution of its autonomous municipalities; a system established after their 1994 uprising in demand for greater Indigenous rights.
• Although they did not directly state it as a cause, the announcement comes in the wake of increased gang violence in Chiapas, an area alongside Guatemala's border held by the Zapatistas.
• Amid the increased isolation, the Zapatistas' local community centers, known as 'Caracoles' or 'snails', will continue to serve locals but would be closed for outsiders.
• The decision to dissolve may possibly be linked to the upcoming 2024 presidential election, as the movement has run candidates in the past.
• Despite the enhanced dangers in Chiapas, with incidences like road blockades, robberies, kidnappings, extortion, and shootouts, the Zapatistas are still inviting people to celebrate their 30th uprising anniversary due in December and January.

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