Two steps forward, one step back? Champions and roadblocks for Mexico’s General Law on Adequate and Sustainable Food

Key takeaways

• Mexico’s landmark right-to-food law, passed in 2024, casts light on the thorny process of food system reform.

• Passage took years of effort. A supportive presidential administration, strong legislative coalition, and input from civil society, researchers, and policymakers all played important roles.

• Despite this legislative victory, implementation has stalled. Political turnover, opposition, and the breadth of the law’s content have delayed its enactment—showing the challenges of reform.