A recent reform in Guerrero prohibits child marriage; however, such a wedding took place on Sunday, May 4, in the community of San Pedro Cuitlapan, Tlacoachistlahuaca. Images shared on social media showed minors dressed as brides and grooms surrounded by guests, with a banquet and live music.
According to local residents and media, the ceremony was organized by the families of the children and apparently had the approval of traditional authorities under the figure of 'uses and customs.' Although the publication of this event generated criticism on social media, questioning the persistence of practices such as child marriage, especially in rural areas of the country.
The new law in Guerrero establishes penalties for those who promote or allow such unions, with the aim of eradicating child marriage and protecting the rights of girls, boys, and adolescents. Despite this, in indigenous and rural communities in the region, these unions continue to take place based on community regulations that conflict with state and federal legislation.
Human rights organizations and child advocates have highlighted the negative consequences, both physical and emotional, that these practices can have on minors, interrupting their educational processes and limiting their development opportunities.
