In Mexico, despite 22 states having decriminalized abortion, Guanajuato remains among the 10 entities that still penalize the interruption of pregnancy, defying the decisions of the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation (SCJN). Local deputy Sandra Pedroza from Movimiento Ciudadano expressed her concern about Guanajuato's lag regarding reproductive rights, highlighting a discrepancy between the official state discourse and its actions regarding women's rights.
In September 2023, the SCJN declared the criminalization of abortion at the federal level unconstitutional, eliminating criminal penalties for those who interrupt their pregnancy and ordering that the public health system guarantee this service. However, the implementation of this resolution depends on each state, and Guanajuato has shown resistance to comply.
In response to federal resolutions, the Institute of Security and Social Services of State Workers (ISSSTE) announced that it is committed to guaranteeing the legal interruption of pregnancy for female public sector workers in its facilities. This decision is supported by federal regulations and international treaties that underline the right to health and gender equality.
In Guanajuato, as International Women's Day on March 8 approaches, various collectives and organizations have increased their actions to demand the decriminalization of abortion in the state. Activists seek for local legislation to align with federal resolutions and ensure access to reproductive health services for women in Guanajuato.
