Vicarious violence, formally recognized in Mexican legislation in 2023, has been described by Luz Arredondo, a representative of the movement in Puebla, as a form of aggression even more devastating than femicide due to the constant emotional torture it implies. Despite the existence of the Vicarious Law, justice remains elusive due to the lack of action from the Judiciary to effectively address this problem.
In a discussion about vicarious violence, María del Rosario Arrambide, director of the Ignacio Ellacuría Institute for Human Rights, SJ (IDHIE) at Ibero Puebla, emphasized the need for more effective public policies to eradicate this form of violence, which continues to be made invisible despite the visibility of femicides. Cristina Tovar, a lawyer and survivor of this crime, pointed out that there is a significant challenge in Puebla to demand changes and effective protection for victims.
Vicarious violence manifests through the lack of recognition by public institutions, delays in complaints to discourage victims, use of influence and corruption, evasion of responsibilities, legal loopholes, lack of knowledge on the issue, machismo in the justice system, absence of a gender perspective in trials, and lack of protection orders, shelters, and labor, economic, and psychological support.
The National Front Against Vicarious Violence has indicated that Puebla is among the top ten states with the most cases of this type of violence in the country. However, the main problem lies in the lack of response from authorities to complaints. It is estimated that the National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) annually assists 150 women victims of vicarious violence, a form of abuse that leaves women in daily mental torment, living with constant fear for the safety of their children.
