Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, the first woman leader of her country, wasted no time in announcing a package of reforms aimed at strengthening women’s rights in a country plagued by alarming levels of gender violence. On her second day in office, Sheinbaum proposed reforms to ensure equal pay for equal work, as women in Mexico currently earn 65 pesos for every 100 pesos earned by men.
These reforms also aim to guarantee freedom from violence and promote gender parity in government cabinets at all levels. The plan involves modifying articles of the Constitution and secondary laws, with strong support expected in Congress where the governing party holds a majority.
Sheinbaum, a former mayor of Mexico City and protege of former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, emphasized the importance of empowering women and combating discrimination. Her government plans to create a women’s bill of rights to educate women about their rights and combat gender-based discrimination.
Sheinbaum stated, “The difference in wages and violence against women stem from discrimination,” highlighting the urgent need for these reforms.