Mexico has taken a landmark step toward gender equality with the creation of a cabinet-level Ministry for Women, spearheaded by President Claudia Sheinbaum. The move, announced ahead of International Women's Day, replaces the National Institute for Women and signals a stronger institutional commitment to addressing systemic challenges faced by women nationwide.
In an exclusive interview with CGTN's Franc Contreras, newly appointed Minister Citlalli Hernández emphasized the ministry's focus on intersectional policies. \"We're not just restructuring institutions—we're transforming how Mexico confronts gender-based violence, economic disparities, and healthcare access,\" Hernández stated.
The ministry's cabinet-level status grants it direct influence over national policymaking and budget allocations, a significant upgrade from its predecessor's advisory role. Analysts highlight this structural change as critical for implementing Mexico's gender parity objectives outlined in the National Development Plan.
President Sheinbaum's decision reinforces her administration's prioritization of women's issues, coming three decades after Mexico ratified the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. The timing of the announcement coincides with growing public demand for concrete actions following last year's record 3,000 femicides reported nationwide.
While specific policy details remain under development, Hernández confirmed initial priorities will include digital inclusion programs for rural women and nationwide implementation of gender-responsive budgeting models. The ministry plans to launch its first cross-state initiatives by Q3 2024.
