Nuevo Leon, UDEM Join Forces to Fight Gender Violence

The Ministry of Labor of Nuevo Leon and the Universidad de Monterrey (UDEM) signed a cooperation agreement to promote education as a key tool to prevent and eradicate gender-based violence. The partnership was formalized during UDEM’s Semana Morada (Purple Week), an initiative that raises awareness about violence against women.

It is estimated that around the world, 736 million women have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner, sexual violence by someone else, or both, at least once in their lives, reports UN Women.

Research from Zonta International indicates that education plays a significant role in decreasing gender-based violence, as it raises awareness and promotes understanding of the issue.Women who have completed at least secondary education face a lower risk of experiencing violence compared to those with less schooling.

“Gender violence is not only fought with laws but with education, empathy, and constant action. Education is the most powerful way to recognize the realities we face and to build healthier, safer, and more equal relationships,” says Federico Rojas, Nuevo Leon’s Minister of Labor.

Universities play a vital role in shaping a culture free of violence where women feel protected and valued, says Isabella Navarro, Vice Rector for Integral Formation, UDEM.

The ceremony was attended by students, faculty, and government representatives. Rojas emphasized that addressing gender violence requires not only legal measures but also cultural and educational transformation. He also highlighted the ministry’s work through the global program Guy Talk, which engages men in understanding and expressing their emotions to prevent frustration and conflict that can lead to violence. This year, more than 15 workshops have been held, training over 350 participants. With the new collaboration, the ministry plans to expand the program to 25 workshops, reaching more than 650 people.