Who / What
The National Guard (Spanish: Guardia Nacional) is the national gendarmerie of Mexico. It was created in 2019 by absorbing units and officers from the Federal Police, Military Police, and Naval Police.
Background & History
The National Guard was founded in 2019 to consolidate various Mexican security forces into a single entity. Its creation involved absorbing personnel from the Federal Police and military police branches. A significant milestone occurred in 2022 when a reform package transferred command of the National Guard to the Secretariat of National Defense.
Why Notable
This organization represents Mexico's primary national gendarmerie force, playing a crucial role in public security and law enforcement. Its creation marked a major restructuring of Mexico's security apparatus. The 2022 transfer of command to military authority represents a significant shift in Mexico's approach to public security.
In the News
Recent developments include the 2022 congressional reform that placed the National Guard under military command. This change reflects ongoing debates about the appropriate role of military versus civilian institutions in Mexican law enforcement. The organization remains relevant as Mexico continues to address security challenges.
