Mexican Drug Cartels: A National Security Threat

The chapter discusses the distinction between Mexican drug cartels and traditional criminal organizations, highlighting how criminal activity can also be considered a national security threat. It explores the control of cartels over parts of Mexico, ineffective criminal justice system, and government's approach towards cartels. The conversation also discusses the potential consequences of increased violence and explores policy options to address the drug cartels, including intelligence, special forces, and disrupting cartels' finances and communications.