• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Mexico Gen Z Protest 2025: Thousands of protesters, led primarily by Generation Z youth groups but joined by supporters across age groups, marched through Mexico City on Saturday to denounce rising violent crime, entrenched corruption and widespread impunity in the country. The demonstrations gained momentum amid national outrage over the assassination of Uruapan Mayor Carlos Manzo earlier this month.

The protest, which unfolded in the heart of Mexico’s capital, became one of the most significant youth-driven mobilisations Mexico has witnessed this year. Similar Gen Z-led demonstrations have erupted globally from Nepal to Morocco, reflecting growing frustration among young people over inequality, governance failures and democratic backsliding.

Outrage Following Mayor’s Killing Fuels Unrest

The murder of Mayor Carlos Manzo on November 1 in Michoacán state has emerged as a key flashpoint. Manzo, known for his strong opposition to drug cartels, was shot dead during a public Day of the Dead event. His death intensified demands for government accountability and stronger security measures. Several protesters wore straw hats symbolic of Manzo’s political movement, while others chanted, “Carlos did not die, the government killed him,” accusing authorities of failing to protect leaders confronting organised crime.

Tensions escalated when a group of hooded demonstrators tore down security barricades surrounding the National Palace, where President Claudia Sheinbaum resides. Mexico City Public Safety Secretary Pablo Vázquez said 100 police officers were injured, 40 of whom required hospitalisation. Another 20 civilians sustained injuries, and police detained around 20 protesters. Twenty more were cited for administrative offences.

Protesters came from diverse backgrounds from business consultants to doctors and retirees united by frustration over rising insecurity. Arizbeth García, a 43-year-old physician, said the healthcare sector was also deeply affected. “Doctors are exposed to the same insecurity where you can be murdered and nothing happens,” she said.

Gen Z Spearheads Global Wave of Protests

Members of Gen Z, those born between 1997 and 2012 have organised mass protests in several nations this year. In Nepal, demonstrations against a temporary social-media ban sparked political turmoil and ultimately led to the resignation of the prime minister. In Morocco, youth groups mobilised against corruption, joblessness and alleged government extravagance linked to preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Mexican protesters echoed similar concerns. Many young participants said they are angered by chronic corruption, weak institutions and systemic impunity that allows violent offenders to operate freely.“We need more security,” said Andrés Massa, 29, who carried a pirate-skull flag now widely adopted as a symbol of global Gen Z movements.

ALSO READ: PoK Unrest: Gen Z-Led Student Protests Erupt Over Fees, Corruption And Repression | VIDEO

Some Gen Z influencers who initially supported the protests later withdrew, while prominent opposition figures, including former President Vicente Fox and billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego openly endorsed the marches.Nevertheless, the group “Generation Z Mexico,” which organised the rally, insists it is a non-partisan movement representing young citizens “fed up with violence, corruption and abuse of power.”

ALSO READ: Gen Z Protests: After Nepal And Philippines, Youth-Led Unrest Topple THIS African Nation | Know Why

As Mexico grapples with persistent cartel violence and high-profile political killings, Saturday’s demonstrations signal mounting pressure on the Sheinbaum administration to curb crime and restore public faith in state institutions.

Also In News