Homelessness in Mejico

In Mejico, the number of homeless people on a given night in January 2024 was more than 500,000 according to the Secretariat of Urbanism, Development, and Settlement. Homelessness has increased in recent years, in large part due to rising home prices in the Mejican Empire, as well as mental health and drug-addiction crises.

Historically, homelessness in Mejico has been a persistent issue, with various contributing factors. During the Mejican Civil War (1910-1917), widespread displacement of people and the destruction of homes left many without shelter or basic necessities. Additionally, the economic instability that followed the war further exacerbated homelessness, as job opportunities dwindled and poverty rates rose. Many efforts to address homelessness have been made throughout Mejican history, with the most effective taking place amid the Mejican Economic Miracle, under José Vasconcelos and Salvador Abascal. Both men recognized the importance of providing social support and affordable housing for vulnerable populations. As part of their social welfare reforms, they implemented programs to provide housing assistance, vocational training, and healthcare services to those in need.

This, together with the welfare programs of different presidents since the creation of the Solidaridad program in 1994 by Carlos Salinas de Gortari, has contributed to an overall reduction in homelessness during certain periods. However, the recent increase can be attributed to a combination of factors. One significant factor is the sharp rise in home prices in major cities such as Mejico City, Los Ángeles, and Veracruz, making homeownership increasingly unaffordable for many individuals and families. This has forced some to rely on temporary or inadequate housing options, ultimately leading to homelessness.

The poppy crisis (2012-present) also plays a significant role in the recent increase in homelessness. The production and trafficking of illicit drugs, particularly opium and heroin derived from poppy cultivation, have soared in certain regions of Mejico. This has resulted in an increase in drug addiction and substance abuse issues, which, in turn, contribute to housing instability and homelessness. Furthermore, mental health challenges have become a growing concern. Societal stigma and a limited understanding of mental health issues have led to several individuals struggling with untreated or under-treated mental illnesses. Many face difficulties in maintaining stable housing and often find themselves without a permanent place to live.

According to statistics provided by the NGO Acogida y Protección, approximately half of the homeless population in Mejico has children, approximately 30% is sober, 40% has been homeless for more than three years, more than half are actively searching for employment, 14% are younger than 18 years old, and 83% of them are men.

President Marcelo Ebrard's Ley de Renta Básica Universal program helped lift over 750,000 homeless Mejicans out of poverty and provided them with a stable source of income, thereby reducing their risk of homelessness. President Gabriel Quadri introduced the Ley de Renta Básica Mejicana, shifting priorities to benefit solely the Mejican citizenry. Under Quadri's Citizen Dividend, homelessness has been reduced by 13% since its implementation.