Michoacán: Challenges to Traditional Life Amid Agricultural and Extractive Expansion

Background: Traditional Life in San Andrés Tziróndaro

San Andrés Tziróndaro, a Purépecha community located on the shores of Lake Pátzcuaro in the Mexican state of Michoacán, has historically maintained a lifestyle deeply connected to its natural environment. The community's traditional practices and sustenance have been linked to the lake, forests, and cultural expressions such as pirekua music. This traditional way of life is reportedly undergoing significant changes due to increased land use for commercial purposes.

Agricultural Expansion and Environmental Impact

Michoacán is identified as a leading Mexican state for agricultural product exports, particularly avocados and berries. These products are primarily exported to the United States, with some also reaching European markets, including the United Kingdom.

In San Andrés Tziróndaro, agribusiness companies reportedly rent communal land, which is traditionally intended for community sustenance. Water is extracted from Lake Pátzcuaro and diverted to agricultural plantations via installed pipes. During a severe drought in the previous year, Lake Pátzcuaro experienced a substantial reduction in water levels, which led to a decrease in fish populations and impacted the fishing community's access to traditional food sources.

Avocado orchards established in forested areas are reported to consume significant amounts of water and affect local biodiversity. Forest fires, some allegedly set intentionally, have occurred, followed by the conversion of cleared land into plantations.

Violence and Threats to Communities

Efforts by communities to protect their land have reportedly resulted in threats, killings, and disappearances. Communities report being situated amidst corporate interests, organized criminal groups, and perceived failures in state protection.

Similar challenges are reported in Michoacán's coastal region, where Indigenous Nahua communities have faced threats while opposing mining and steel projects implemented without prior consultation. Specific incidents include the murder of Eustacio Alcalá Díaz and the forced disappearance of environmental defender José Gabriel Pelayo in San Juan Huitzontla, both linked to conflicts over extractive interests. These cases remain unresolved and are cited as examples of risks faced by individuals challenging economic interests.

Global Witness reported at least 36 attacks on defenders in Mexico between 2023 and 2024, with most victims being Indigenous individuals. Investigations into these cases have reportedly shown limited progress. Engaging in human rights work in the region is stated to carry significant personal risk.

Political Violence and Organized Crime

Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan—a key economic center for avocado exports—was assassinated in November during a public event. Manzo had reportedly engaged in public confrontation with organized crime. Reports indicate that at least three mayors have been murdered in Michoacán this year, contributing to broader public security concerns in the region. This violence is described as having political implications within Michoacán.

Responses and International Implications

Protection strategies for defenders reportedly stem from strengthening community networks, international accompaniment, and collective self-protection, rather than from state intervention. The reported violence has resulted in collective psychological impacts and forced displacement for many defenders, who reportedly live under conditions of heightened vigilance.

The article posits that international markets play a role in sustaining the current economic model. The United States is identified as the primary destination for Michoacán's avocados and berries, and European and British markets are also noted for their involvement through imports, corporate finance, and trade relationships.

Advocacy groups have called for importing countries to mandate binding human rights and environmental due diligence across agricultural and extractive supply chains. Key demands include consultation with Indigenous peoples, respect for communal land and water rights, and protection for defenders. For affected communities, land defense is described as intrinsically linked to cultural heritage, subsistence, and self-respect.

The article suggests that continued international consumption of extracted resources without addressing local costs may perpetuate the current situation in regions like Michoacán.