Is it safe to study in Mexico?

09 Apr 2010

Lately international media has paid much attention to the current safety problems in northern Mexico. Drug-related violence has been on the rise and some incidents have occurred in Monterrey. What does this situation imply for Dutch higher education institutions and Dutch students?

Nuffic Neso Mexico has reviewed various sources to be able to give accurate information about the safety situation in Mexico. The Dutch Embassy, the Commission of the European Union, the Mexican Association for International Education (AMPEI) and universities in Monterrey were asked to comment on the situation.

Current situation

It is very important to understand that the increase of drug-related violence has mainly occurred in a few cities and regions in Mexico, mostly located along the Mexico – U.S. border. Cities in the states of Sinaloa, Chihuahua and Baja California have seen battles between drug cartels and the Mexican security forces, and among themselves. Especially Ciudad Juarez has been affected by this escalation of violence. Although most casualties have been either people involved in the drug cartels or security personnel, some innocent people have been trapped in gunfire as well.

The Dutch Embassy in Mexico

At this moment the Dutch Embassy is currently updating the travel advice published by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The update will probably include that drug-related violence is on the rise in the northern region and along the coasts of Mexico.

The Delegation of the European Union in Mexico

So far, the delegation of the European Union in Mexico has not received news about European organizations or institutions withdrawing their students from Mexico.

AMPEI

AMPEI, the Mexican Association for International Education, follows the statement published by of CONAHEC (Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration) en SAFETI (Safety Abroad First – Educational Travel Information) about the situation. Generally AMPEI does not consider it to be unsafe to study in Mexico; however, it is important to be aware of the existing problems. Click here to read the complete statement.

Universidad de Monterrey

Recently some unfortunate incidents took place in Monterrey, in the north-eastern region of Mexico. However, it is important to understand that these were incidents and security measures have increased. Thomas Buntru, director of the Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM), has informed that although the situation is not optimal, he does not consider it a safety risk to visit and study in Monterrey.

Recommendations

Mexico is a country about 50 times bigger than The Netherlands. The aforementioned problems do not apply to all parts of the country, such as Mexico City or Guadalajara for example. Some recommendations for travelers to Mexico and students that are going to do an exchange in Mexico:

Before leaving, read the travel advice by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the latest information.
Follow the news about the city and/or region where you are traveling to via internet, newspapers or television.
Upon arrival, register with the Dutch Embassy in Mexico.
In all cities, stay in well-known tourist areas. People living in the city you are staying in usually can tell you which parts of town are unsafe to visit. Follow their recommendations.

More information

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Nuffic Neso Mexico. The information will be based on the recommendations given by the Dutch Embassy in Mexico.