State of Mexico Decriminalizes Abortion in Landmark Vote

The Congress of the State of Mexico voted on November 25, 2024, to decriminalize abortion in all cases during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This decision represents a significant milestone for reproductive rights in the country's largest state by population.

Human Rights Watch has stated that the reform will eliminate criminal penalties for abortion during the first trimester, thereby aligning the State of Mexico with 18 other states that have implemented comparable measures in response to Mexico's Supreme Court decision in 2021, which declared the blanket criminalization of abortion unconstitutional.

The Marea Verde Edomex coalition, which advocated for the reform, declared that "this decision is a critical victory for women, girls, and pregnant people." "It is a developmental step toward gender equality and enables individuals to make well-informed decisions regarding their bodies and futures."

In the past, the State of Mexico's restrictive abortion laws erected obstacles to treatment, which discouraged both healthcare providers and patients. Abortion was previously only permissible in specific circumstances, such as rape or threats to the woman's life. While the new law will continue to restrict abortion after 12 weeks, it is anticipated that the reform will alleviate concerns regarding legal repercussions and enhance access to secure care.

Human Rights Watch underscored that marginalized communities, such as those residing in poverty or with disabilities, have encountered the most significant challenges in obtaining reproductive healthcare. The reform aims to mitigate inequities and guarantee a more comprehensive range of access to essential services by eliminating these legal obstacles.

Cristina Quijano Carrasco of Human Rights Watch stated, "This accomplishment is a testament to the efficacy of collaboration and activism." This reform must now be translated into practical, accessible healthcare by the State of Mexico.