The right to a pension between relief and survival: voices and experiences of older adults in the north of Mexico

Abstract

Population aging in Mexico is taking place in a context of profound social inequalities and fragmented social protection systems, which places large sectors of older persons (OP) in precarious conditions. In this scenario, pension policies, particularly universal non- contributory pensions, have been presented as state strategies to guarantee a minimum income in old age. However, it is necessary to analyze how these policies are experienced and understood by older adults themselves in their daily lives.

The objective of this article is to critically analyze pension policies in Mexico from an intersectional and human rights perspective, based on the experiences and narratives of OP living in the north of the country. Methodologically, a qualitative approach was used based on interviews with 25 older persons living in Ciudad Juárez and El Tule (Chihuahua), as well as in Los Herreras and Monterrey (Nuevo León).

The findings show that, although pensions provide economic relief and minimal recognition by the state, they are insufficient to guarantee a dignified old age and the full exercise of rights. It is concluded that pensions, when not linked to comprehensive health, care, and social participation policies, operate as mechanisms of containment rather than as effective guarantees of rights.