Mexico's economic struggles have given rise to ruthless organizations known as the Mexican Drug Cartels. These drug lords have been a growing source of conflict for decades, fueling the ongoing war against drugs. The socioeconomic status of the areas hosting these gangs has a direct impact on the migration of cartels into the United States. America's more stable economy has led cartels to capitalize on demand for drugs. Through collaboration between Mexico and the United States, the struggle to reduce smuggling and violence at the border can be reduced. Mexico is ranked as the fourth largest country in the Western Hemisphere. Their efforts to improve and modernize the economy have been slowed by the nation's rugged terrain, limited farmland, and rapidly growing population. As of July 2010, an estimated 112,468,855 people lived in Mexico. Approximately seventy-six percent of the population has moved from underdeveloped to more developed areas located along the shared border between the United States and Mexico. The country has made relatively little economic or political progress, and the Mexican people continue to struggle. (US Department of State) Due to a lack of economic stability, drug cartels have become a catastrophic force and are now pushing their destruction across the United States. Due to a lack of jobs and resources, many people felt the need to join the cartel to ensure the survival of their families. Lack of resources and weak government have left Mexico vulnerable to corruption. This vulnerability has allowed cartels to take control and take advantage of the country's weakness. They have been a dominant force in Mexico for decades... middle of paper... ct. 2007. Foreign Affairs, Defense and Trade Division. October 29, 2011.Dudley, Steven. Director. "Juárez Cartel." Insight – Organized crime in the Americas. January 29, 2011. November 13, 2011 .Kerlikowske, R. Gil.Director. “2011 National Drug Control Strategy.” The White House. November 14, 2011 "Mexico". US Department of State. December 14, 2010. Office of Public Affairs. November 10, 2011. Suddath, Claire. “A Brief History of the War on Drugs – TIME.” Breaking News, Analysis, Politics, Blogs, News Photos, Videos, Tech Reviews - TIME.com. March 25, 2009. World Time. November 13th. .