Strengthening Solidarity: A Theoretical Inquiry into the Roles of Civil Society Organizations in the Support of Elderly Citizens in Mexico City

Abstract

In this chapter, we present a theoretical framework related to the role of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in advocating for and providing basic social services to elderly citizens. We present preliminary qualitative data from a convenience sample of organizations in Mexico City to begin to understand how such organizations frame their missions. Initial observations lead us to theorize three potential foci around which these organizations frame their objectives: (1) A focus on quality of life, health, and self-development; (2) a focus on material needs and economic security; and (3) a focus on social and political rights. These foci are not mutually exclusive, and organizational characteristics and membership determine which specific focus or foci dominate. Our initial observations reveal a wide range of organizations whose effectiveness in furthering the rights and welfare of their members reflects the human and political capital of their membership. Certain organizations whose members consists primarily of women who have low levels of education and little formal work experience promote social participation and physical activity but have little ability to extract benefits and services from the State. Other organizations, which tend to be predominantly male, many of whom are ex-government employees or retired members of powerful unions, are more able to leverage their experiences in dealing with the State to further their own interests, as well as to influence public policy more broadly. Throughout we discuss the potential role of such organizations both as providers of needed social services and as advocates and collective political actors that focus on furthering the basic rights of the elderly.