Mexico’s first female president: What does it mean for gender and LGBTQ+ rights?

As Mexico prepares for the 2024 presidential elections, one concern remains: will the next president prioritise female rights and issues? The stakes are high, as the country may elect its first female president.

The facts

Claudia Sheinbaum emerges as the front-runner, promising to carry on President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s programme. Xóchitl Gálvez is trailing behind, representing a variety of opposition parties, some of whom have historically been conservative.

However, neither Sheinbaum nor Gálvez have been open about their views on crucial gender policies, including abortion. In a primarily Catholic country, both candidates have been cautious in their pronouncements, concentrating on women’s equality and protection as violence and femicide rise.

Currently, twelve of Mexico’s 32 states have decriminalised abortion, with the majority occurring within the last five years. In addition, a recent court decision has put another state on the verge of legalising marijuana.

In 2023, Mexico’s Supreme Court deemed national abortion regulations unlawful, following a global trend of expanding abortion access. However, obstacles remain in implementing safe and accessible abortion services, particularly in areas where they have been decriminalised.

Despite progress, LGBTQ+ rights remain a contentious issue in Mexico. Violence against gay and transgender individuals is prevalent, with many cases going unpunished. While same-sex marriage is legal nationwide, other LGBTQ+ rights are not uniformly guaranteed.

The arguments

While the president has little direct impact on abortion regulations due to state autonomy, they wield moral authority over their party members. Activists are concerned that both major candidates have made no concrete promises on abortion or other crucial topics such as LGBTQ+ rights and migrant protection.

Conservative perspectives on abortion and women’s rights

While conservative groups in Mexico do not advocate for the punishment of women who have abortions, they do emphasise the sanctity of life and seek laws that favour adoption over abortion.

Anti-abortion groups criticise the present administration’s stance and express concerns about the judiciary’s ideological prejudices, which they believe will influence future abortion decisions.

Beyond symbols, what role does feminism play in government?

Simply electing a woman does not ensure a feminist agenda. Integrating feminist viewpoints into governance is critical for achieving meaningful change. Some feminists back Sheinbaum, but others criticise her and López Obrador’s handling of women’s concerns and protests.

Prioritising LGBTQ+ rights

The LGBTQ+ community in Mexico experiences numerous obstacles, including violence and prejudice. While significant steps have been taken, such as legalising same-sex marriage, complete rights are not guaranteed nationally.

A government that values LGBTQ+ rights should work with community organisations, combat violence and prejudice, assist LGBTQ+ migration, and ensure legal acknowledgment of gender identity.

What is ahead?

As Mexico approaches its important election, the question remains: Will the new president embrace female equality and rights? While the conclusion is uncertain, there is a clear need for comprehensive policy addressing abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s issues. The future of Mexico’s social environment is uncertain.