México: la transición votada

Abstract

The results of the Mexican federal elections of July 2000 raised new questions for those interested in transitions. In contrast to the South American, East-European, and South European experiences –that have produced a rich literature on the subject–, political changes in Mexico are not easily placed within the existing theoretical frameworks. This paper aims at contrasting the ideal model of transition and the real Mexican transition. The argument focuses on three differences: instead of a transition based on pact –as suggested by theory– this has been a transition based on voting. Moreover, there has not been –as in other cases— a breaking point with the previous regime, but a gradual and continuous opening. Finally, rather than a transformation of the rules of the game, what has taken place is a recovery of formal institutions, not the design of new ones.