Mexico Fortifies Care for Survivors of Sexual Violence

In observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, Mexico’s Ministry of Health outlined recent advances in the care for girls, adolescents, and women who have experienced sexual violence, while highlighting actions to strengthen institutional response.

In Mexico, seven out of 10  women have experienced violence, according to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). According to the WHO, women who experience violence are at increased risk of unintended pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections, and depression. Sexual and reproductive health services provide a crucial pathway for survivors to access the comprehensive care they require.

During the ceremony “For Them, For All, Without Violence,” David Kershenobich, Mexico’s Minister of Health, emphasized that addressing violence against women requires reinforced policies, capacity building, and services grounded in rights, gender equality, and reproductive justice.

Mexico’s Criteria for Comprehensive Care of Sexual Abuse and Assault marks a key advance, establishing clear guidelines to ensure that medical attention is respectful, timely, and sensitive, while avoiding revictimization. Kershenobich underscores that reporting is a right, not an obligation, and clarifies that women are not required to file a formal complaint to receive care. Health personnel are not tasked with verifying claims, and administrative procedures must not delay treatment.

The Ministry of Health is also working to guarantee the national availability of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for HIV, a critical tool for the immediate protection of survivors. Kershenobich notes ongoing collaboration with state authorities to improve timely implementation and access across health units.

Teresa Ramos, Director General, National Center for Gender Equity and Sexual and Reproductive Health (CNEGSSR), calls sexual violence as both a public health urgency and an institutional obligation. She notes that the 2024 decalog has begun implementation in several states, including Chiapas and Tabasco, with Aguascalientes and the State of Mexico preparing for formal adoption.

Ramos highlights international support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and other agencies, alongside federal health institutions including IMSS, ISSSTE, IMSS-Bienestar, PEMEX, SEDENA, SEMAR, and federal hospitals. These collaborations aim to reduce fragmentation and consolidate an effective, coordinated response.

She stresses the need to strengthen health personnel training, expand access to safe and comprehensive services, develop a national information and indicator system, and ensure continuity and sustainability of public policy. 

Mexico has made advances in strengthening the health sector’s response to violence against women, says José Moya, Representative in Mexico, PAHO/WHO. These include the adoption of the ANIMA protocol and new technical guidelines for comprehensive care and access to safe abortion services.