Worker conditions in Mexico are notoriously bad. Millions of Mexicans scrape by on meager incomes and have seriously limited rights. Workers across all industries often do not have social security, healthcare, or other benefits. Their employment is often in precarious situations.
One thing not shown the graph below, are the millions of Mexicans that are underemployed and those that must work overtime to support themselves.
One can imagine the widespread disenchantment with the neoliberal model and the constant financial struggle faced by millions of Mexicans.
The economic problems in Mexico meant that the 19 cartels (by 1989) started to be welcomed for the influx of dollars and the jobs they offered. The risk involved in drug production and narco trafficking translate to high payoffs, which for many are enough incentive to become involved.