This article explores the nature and dynamics of criminal violence in central Mexico through the lived experience of internally displaced persons (IDPs) over the past ten years. First, the issue of internal displacement and the context of violence and drug-trafficking in Mexico is addressed, then reflections are made on the methodological, security and ethical challenges of doing fieldwork in contexts of violence. Three case studies are drawn upon to illustrate the complexities of violence, organised crime and state (in)action leading to forced displacement. Findings are analysed and framed as grey zones, uncertain and at times indecipherable and terrifying.

中文翻译：

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逃离暴力：墨西哥中部被迫流离失所的故事

本文通过过去十年国内流离失所者 (IDP) 的生活经历，探讨墨西哥中部犯罪暴力的性质和动态。首先，解决了墨西哥境内流离失所问题以及暴力和贩毒背景，然后思考了在暴力背景下进行实地工作的方法、安全和道德挑战。三个案例研究被用来说明暴力、有组织犯罪和国家（不）行动导致被迫流离失所的复杂性。调查结果被分析和框定为灰色地带，不确定，有时难以辨认和可怕。