Sheinbaum: Mexico’s Beaches Must Stay Public

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo delivered a forceful message to those attempting to privatize the nation’s beaches during her visit to Chetumal, Quintana Roo. The president emphasized that Mexico’s coastal areas must remain accessible to all citizens, condemning efforts by developers and private interests to restrict public access.

A Firm Stance Against Privatization

Sheinbaum’s remarks come amid growing reports of gentrification and exclusionary practices in popular beach destinations such as Cancún, Los Cabos, Oaxaca’s coast, and Mazatlán, Sinaloa. Social media has documented incidents of discrimination, with foreigners and even some Mexican nationals attempting to block public access to beaches, falsely claiming ownership of the shoreline adjacent to their properties.

“The beaches belong to the people, to the nation, and there must be access for all Mexicans. They cannot be privatized. In places where access is restricted, public pathways to the beaches must be opened. This is what we are working on in various locations, including Cozumel,” Sheinbaum stated.

The president highlighted the issue of developers failing to provide public easements, known as pasos de servidumbre, which are legally required to ensure beach access. She stressed the importance of guaranteeing all citizens the right to enjoy Mexico’s natural resources, including its sandy shores and coastal waters.

Expanding Public Access to Cultural Sites

Sheinbaum also announced plans to introduce free admission to archaeological sites one day per month, reinforcing her administration’s commitment to cultural accessibility.

“There must be a free day—it’s non-negotiable. We are reviewing when to implement this, but it will happen,” she affirmed.

The initiative aims to provide more recreational and educational opportunities for Mexicans, who work some of the longest hours globally. According to 2022 data from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Mexicans average 2,226 work hours annually—surpassing countries like South Korea (1,901), the U.S. (1,811), and Japan (1,607).

Addressing the Sargassum Challenge

During her visit, Sheinbaum also addressed concerns about sargassum seaweed, which has affected coastal areas in Quintana Roo, including Cancún, Playa del Carmen, and Cozumel. She acknowledged the efforts of Governor Mara Lezama, the Mexican Navy, and local hoteliers in mitigating the issue, noting that tourism has not been significantly impacted.

“Governor Lezama has led important work alongside the Navy and private stakeholders. While sargassum has appeared on some beaches, there’s no evidence of a decline in tourism. Still, we must continue addressing it,” Sheinbaum said.

The president’s statements underscore her administration’s focus on preserving public spaces and combating exclusionary practices, ensuring Mexico’s beaches remain a shared national treasure.