Homelessness Crisis Deepens in Tulum Amid Neglect

Tulum, Mexico — The visible increase in homeless individuals and members of the so-called “death squad” — a local term for habitual drinkers who loiter or sleep in public spaces — has become a daily sight in key areas of Tulum, including the Centro neighborhood, Cancha Maya, and major avenues such as Tulum and Cobá.

The presence of these groups, living in extreme vulnerability, has sparked discontent among residents, business owners, and tourists. It also highlights a social issue that appears to be overlooked by municipal authorities.

A Growing Concern

Jorge Aguilar, a local merchant in the downtown area, noted a significant rise in the number of homeless individuals in recent months.

“It looks really bad, honestly. Sometimes they’re lying on the sidewalk, dirty, asleep, or with bottles. It’s embarrassing to see them like that… and sad too, because they’re clearly people who need help,” Aguilar said. “Tourists sometimes cross the street to avoid them, others take photos, but in the end, it’s not the best image for our city.”

The issue extends beyond the visual impact. Many of these individuals struggle with addiction, mental health issues, or are elderly without family support. The rise in homelessness coincides with the absence of comprehensive programs to assist this population in a city that prides itself on modernity and economic growth.

Institutional Failures

Fabiola Martínez, a resident of the Tumben Ká neighborhood, expressed frustration over the lack of intervention.

“When I first came to Tulum years ago, you hardly saw any homeless people. Now they’re on every corner, and the worst part is that many are in terrible condition. Sometimes they don’t move all day,” Martínez said. “I’m not judging, but I do wonder: Where are the DIF (Family Development Agency) or mental health services?”

The problem is multifaceted, stemming from family breakdowns, substance abuse, and institutional neglect. Agencies such as the Municipal DIF, the Health Department, Public Safety, and the Municipal Youth Institute should play an active role in identifying and assisting these individuals. However, their absence is evident in the lack of clear policies, reliable census data, or street outreach programs.

Societal Indifference

Public attitudes vary. While some view the homeless as a “visual nuisance,” others reinforce stigmas without understanding the human stories behind their struggles. Allowing the situation to persist only normalizes neglect.

In a city that builds luxury developments and markets itself as a natural and spiritual paradise, the contrast with the exhausted faces of those surviving on sidewalks and parks is stark. The challenge is urgent: identifying, assisting, rehabilitating, and reintegrating these individuals requires a cross-cutting public policy that combines health services, social work, human rights, and institutional will.

For now, the only things growing are the number of people sleeping on the streets and the indifference of those around them.