The New Trump Presidency: Mexico, Cartels, and the Global Counterterrorism Debate

Learn about the strategic, legal, and political implications of the Trump administration’s move to designate Mexican cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) and to apply global counterterrorism frameworks to criminal groups in Latin America. The discussion examines whether this shift represents a doctrinal transformation or a tactical escalation, and how it may reshape U.S.–Mexico relations, regional stability, and global counterterrorism policy.

The panel will explore the risks of militarization, including the use of drone strikes, air campaigns, and special operations, while comparing these approaches with traditional law enforcement cooperation. Drawing lessons from the War on Terror, the discussion will assess sovereignty challenges, domestic political consequences in Mexico, and the broader global implications of blurring the line between organized crime and terrorism.

Moderator:

1. Dr. Paola Maria Raunio, Assistant Professor, Rabdan Academy

Speakers:

1. Dr. John Harrison, Associate Professor, Rabdan Academy
2. Dr. Agustin Maciel Padilla, Assistant Professor, Rabdan Academy
3. Dr. Javier Rojas, Assistant Professor, Rabdan Academy
4. Dr. Carlos Iglesias, Assistant Professor/Researcher, Rabdan Academy