Will Popular Elections Undermine Mexico's Court System? Plus updates on South Korea, Poland, and the Sahel

Interview with David Mora on Mexico's Judicial Elections: 27:20

This week, Kelly and Tristen unpack key elections in Poland and South Korea, and examine the growing reach of an Al-Qaeda affiliate in West Africa. Kelly then sits down with David Mora to explore Mexico’s recent judicial elections and their implications for Mexican democracy and U.S.-Mexico relations.

David Mora is the Senior Analyst for Mexico at the International Crisis Group. David researches organised crime, violence, corruption and conflict in the country, blending fieldwork and investigative reporting tools. He analyses and formulates policy strategies aimed at preventing, mitigating or resolving conflict. Originally an investigative reporter and documentary producer, David has eight years of experience in journalism, working for VICE News, NBC News, ProPublica and The Atlantic. His coverage of migration, criminal violence and corruption in Mexico has been recognised with some of the most prestigious journalism awards in the United States. Before doing journalism, he worked as a human rights researcher for different civil society groups in Mexico.

The opinions expressed in this conversation are strictly those of the participants and do not represent the views of Georgetown University or any government entity.

Produced by Theo Malhotra and Freddie Mallinson. 

Recorded on June 10, 2025. Diplomatic Immunity, a podcast from the Institute for the Study of Diplomacy at Georgetown University, brings you frank and candid conversations with experts on the issues facing diplomats and national security decision-makers around the world.

Funding support from the Carnegie Corporation of New York.

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