Mexico’s government has unveiled a new citizen disarmament initiative, offering financial rewards of up to $1,300 for individuals who voluntarily surrender firearms, including machine guns and assault rifles. The program, aimed at reducing violent crime, was detailed in the country’s official gazette on Monday.
Under the “Yes to Disarmament, Yes to Peace” initiative, residents can hand over weapons at designated collection points, such as church lobbies, without fear of prosecution. President Claudia Sheinbaum encouraged citizens to participate in the initiative, highlighting its prior success in Mexico City during her tenure as mayor. “It’s about creating accessible and voluntary opportunities for people to give up their firearms while receiving economic benefits in return,” she stated.
The program comes in response to the staggering levels of gun violence in Mexico, where 31,062 homicides were recorded in 2023, with firearms accounting for 70 percent of the deaths, according to preliminary data from the national statistics institute.
Despite Mexico’s stringent gun control laws, which make legal firearm purchases nearly impossible, the country has struggled with an influx of illegal weapons, many of which are trafficked from the United States. Mexican authorities have repeatedly called on Washington to intensify efforts to curb cross-border arms trafficking.
By involving religious institutions as collection points, the government hopes to foster community engagement and trust in the disarmament process. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to address the root causes of violence and promote peace in a nation grappling with crime fueled by the multibillion-dollar illegal drug trade.
The government’s proactive measures signal a commitment to reducing gun violence and improving safety, as officials urge residents to participate in creating a more peaceful Mexico.
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