A new document, written by Cirila Quintero Ramírez, MSN ally working out of the Colegio de la Frontera Norte in Matamoros, analyzes the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on maquila workers in the north of Mexico. The document is part of a broader political analysis piece entitled, “COVID-19 and the northeastern border: early impacts on migration, public policy and populations.”
It details the situation of workers in Matamoros, union struggles to suspend operations and defend rights, and the limitations of the federal government to respond to the local reality. While companies have access to government and legal support to defend themselves, local actors defending workers have been met with administrative and bureaucratic obstacles, and lack of legal clarity. The continuation of operations during the pandemic puts the health and lives of workers at risk.