Mexico’s Next President and the Future of Abortion and LGBTQ+ Rights: What to Expect
Mexico City is buzzing with anticipation as the country gears up for its upcoming presidential election on June 2. The spotlight is on the possibility of Mexico’s first female president being elected for the term 2024-2030, with candidates Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez leading the race.
The big question on everyone’s mind is whether a female president would rule with gender in mind. Activists, human rights organizations, and academics are raising concerns about the candidates’ stances on gender-related policies, particularly on issues like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights.
In a country where more than 98 million Catholics reside, the candidates have been relatively quiet on specific proposals regarding abortion. While both Sheinbaum and Gálvez have highlighted the importance of equality and protection measures for women in the face of rising violence and femicide, their silence on abortion has left many wondering about their stance on reproductive rights.
Currently, twelve of Mexico’s 32 states have decriminalized abortion, with more states expected to follow suit. The Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in 2023 declared laws prohibiting abortions unconstitutional, paving the way for wider access to safe and legal abortions. However, challenges remain in ensuring that abortion is accessible and government-funded across the country.
The next president may not directly impact abortion legislation, as each state has autonomy over its penal code. However, their moral authority and influence within their party could shape the conversation around reproductive rights. Activists are calling for concrete proposals from the candidates on abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and the protection of migrants.
As the election draws near, the debate on gender equality and reproductive rights in Mexico continues to heat up. The outcome of the election will have far-reaching implications for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights in the country. Stay tuned as Mexico prepares to make history with its first female president at the helm.