By Sofía Pérez Gasque
The arrival of Claudia Sheinbaum to the presidency of Mexico has generated expectations around the promotion of gender equality policies. However, it is essential to analyze how these policies actually impact women and, in particular, children in vulnerable situations. Although the creation of institutions such as the Federal Secretariat for Women and the implementation of laws such as "The aggressor leaves home" are important steps, they do not always guarantee that all women and their children benefit equally.
Sheinbaum's administration has elevated women's rights to ministerial rank by creating the Federal Secretariat for Women. This institution aims to coordinate efforts to implement policies that protect women and promote their comprehensive development. Among its initiatives are:
● "The aggressor leaves home" law: This legislation allows the aggressor to be removed from the home during the legal process, providing greater security for the victims.
● Lawyers in all public ministries: The aim is to ensure that all women who report violence receive specialized attention and legal support.
At first glance, these measures appear promising. However, it is crucial to recognize that having female lawyers or judges does not guarantee that the rights of children involved in custody disputes will be adequately protected. The reality is that, in many cases, the judicial system may fail to prioritize child welfare, leaving children in vulnerable situations.
When it comes to custody cases, the presence of women in positions of power does not always translate into decisions that benefit children. Often, custody disputes can become a battleground where the needs and interests of the children take a back seat. Decisions made by female lawyers or judges may be influenced by factors unrelated to the welfare of children, such as personal conflicts between parents or biases inherent in the judicial system.
This raises a critical question: how do you ensure that the policies implemented actually protect children in these situations? The lack of a child-centered approach can result in decisions that perpetuate cycles of violence and neglect.
For public policies to be effective in protecting both women and children, it is essential to adopt a comprehensive approach that considers family dynamics and the emotional impact on minors.
This includes:
● Training for professionals: Lawyers and judges should receive specific training on how to approach custody cases with a child welfare perspective.
● Clear protocols: Establish guidelines that prioritize the best interests of the child in.
all custody decisions.
● Psychosocial support: Provide resources to help children cope with trauma associated with family conflict.
While Claudia Sheinbaum's administration has taken significant steps towards promoting gender equality and protecting women, it is crucial to assess how these policies also impact the girls involved. The creation of institutions and programs is only the first step; their effectiveness depends on a real commitment to ensure that all vulnerable parties are heard and protected.
True equality is not achieved simply with more women in positions of power; it requires a profound change in institutional culture that prioritizes child welfare and ensures that every decision made reflects that commitment.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
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