Mexican President Protests U.S. Funding to Civil Groups
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador (AMLO) is not happy with the United States of America. He is upset because the United States government is funding some Mexican groups. These groups are known as NGOs (non-governmental organizations). One of these organizations is called Mexicans Against Corruption and Impunity (MCCI).
Why Is AMLO Angry?
AMLO believes that MCCI and other NGOs are against his government. He believes they are trying to cause trouble and have a connection to his political opponents. As a result he accused the United States of interfering in Mexican internal affairs. He believes that when the United States gives money to these organizations to interfere with how Mexico runs its own country.
What Is He Doing About It?
AMLO has decided to send a formal protest which is called a diplomatic note to the USA government. In this note he will complain about the USA giving money to these groups. This is not his first time sending a note like this. He sent a quite similar note a few months ago but did not get a response from the United States.
Where Is the Money Coming From?
The USA government has been giving money to NGOs in Mexico through two main agencies. One is the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the other one is the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Since AMLO became president these agencies have given around $591.5 million to many different groups in Mexico. The money was raised to fight corruption, protect human rights and encourage democracy. However because some of this money goes to groups that criticize AMLO he sees it as a threat.
Why Does It Matter?
This situation is important because it shows the tension between Mexico and the USA. It also shows AMLO's focus about foreign influence in Mexican politics. AMLO's diplomatic note tries to protect Mexico's independence and show that he will not tolerate outside interference.
