Investing in diplomacy is essential in today's world, where complex and interconnected challenges require global cooperation and collaboration.

Diplomacy is the art of negotiating, building relationships, and resolving conflicts between nations and other actors on the international stage. It is a critical tool for advancing national interests, promoting peace and security, and addressing global challenges.

A primary benefit of investing in diplomacy is that it can help to prevent conflicts and reduce the likelihood of violence.

The recent kidnapping of four Americans by cartels in Mexico is a stark reminder of the danger that organized crime poses to both Mexico and the United States. While the United States has traditionally focused on using military and law enforcement measures to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, it is increasingly clear that investing in diplomacy and addressing the underlying causes of insecurity is essential to reducing violence and instability in the region.

One of the main drivers of violence and insecurity in Mexico is the pervasive corruption that allows cartels to operate with impunity. The cartels have infiltrated every level of government, from local police departments to high-level politicians as well as judges. This corruption not only allows the cartels to operate freely but also undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in its already decimated government institutions.

Investing in diplomacy and supporting anti-corruption efforts in Mexico is essential to addressing this problem. The United States should intensify their work with Mexican authorities to strengthen the institutions that are responsible for combating corruption, such as the Attorney General's Office, the police and army. This could involve providing training and technical assistance, as well as providing financial support for anti-corruption initiatives,

Even though Lopez Obrador recently shut down operations of the elite DEA team in Mexico– the Special Investigations Unit (SIU), showing his lack of commitment to address this pressing issue, the United States can help to address this problem by investing in economic development programs in Mexico. This could involve supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, as well as providing job training and education programs. By creating economic opportunities in areas that are vulnerable to drug trafficking and organized crime, the United States can help to reduce the appeal of these illicit activities and create a more stable and prosperous society in Mexico.

Investing in diplomacy is not only essential to addressing the root causes of insecurity in Mexico but is also in the interest of the United States. The United States shares a long and complex relationship with Mexico, and instability and violence in Mexico have significant spillover effects on the United States. In addition to the human toll of drug trafficking and organized crime, the flow of drugs and other illicit activities across the border has a significant impact on the United States' economy and public health.

By working together, the United States and Mexico can create a more effective and coordinated response to the threat posed by organized crime and ultimately create a more stable and prosperous society in the region. This will require a long-term and sustained commitment to addressing the complex challenges facing Mexico, but the potential benefits are significant.

The recent kidnapping of four Americans by cartels in Mexico highlights the urgent need to address the root causes of insecurity in the region. Investing in diplomacy and addressing the pervasive corruption that allows cartels to operate with impunity is essential to reducing violence and instability in Mexico. By creating economic opportunities, strengthening regional cooperation, and addressing the transnational nature of organized crime, the United States can build a more stable and prosperous society with Mexico.

He can be reached directly at: dalvarezmendoza@sandiego.edu.