Gonzalo Rocha reflects on the 1986 CEU student movement

Cartoonist Gonzalo Rocha has reflected on the legacy of the Consejo Estudiantil Universitario (CEU), a student movement formed in 1986 at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) to oppose reforms led by then-rector Jorge Carpizo.

Rocha noted that the movement served as a political training ground for a generation of left-wing activists who later transitioned into significant government roles. Among those mentioned are Mexico’s current president, Claudia Sheinbaum, and Martí Batres.

As the movement approaches its 40th anniversary, Rocha observed that while some former members successfully implemented their original principles, others transitioned into institutional politics, sometimes adopting practices like corporatism and clientelism due to the realities of power.