Guadalajara Reporter

Responsible newspaper editors are acutely aware that disproportionate coverage of crime can create elevated levels of fear and perceptions of personal risk.

In a small community such as Ajijic, the simple reporting of a tragic, single crime that results in the death of an innocent citizen can heighten people’s fears of becoming victims of crime, even though statistically they are unlikely to be.

It is therefore the duty of established newspapers to avoid speculation or unfounded detail, and provide accurate information on the actual security situation and the risk of harm to individuals and property.

Providing balance and context is vital to avoid fomenting unwarranted fears and prejudices.

It’s what still sets responsible media outlets apart from the instantaneous babble of the social media revolution.

Everyone knows that crime is not exclusive to certain communities – it happens everywhere and is just as prevalent in the United States and Canada as in Mexico.

Only fantasists believe that crime-free communities actually exist.

Yes we must encourage and praise those civic-minded citizens who seek to build bridges between different cultures and promote greater understanding on security issues. Communities that work closely with their elected leaders and public officials tend to thrive. And a united community is a safer community.

But let’s not demonize a community because of an unjustified perception that it is insecure.  The most basic statistics show that the Lake Chapala area is no more insecure than any other community with a large congregation of expatriates in Mexico.

As far as enjoying a harmonious existence with our Mexican hosts goes, the Chapala/Ajijic/Jocotepec area beats any other expat enclave – hands down.
And that is something to rejoice, and keep nurturing and developing.