In a state plagued by economic inequality and violence, thousands of women are forced to assume sole responsibility for their households. According to official figures from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI), there are at least 81,072 female heads of households in Campeche, with many facing the daunting task of motherhood under adverse conditions.
Despite being a significant proportion of those responsible for household management, women face numerous challenges as they try to balance their roles as caregivers, breadwinners, and decision-makers. These obstacles include a wage gap, unequal distribution of domestic work, workplace violence, harassment, stalking, and discriminatory customs and practices.
The 2023 birth count revealed that over 13,000 women aged 15 and above gave birth in Campeche. The majority were single mothers, with some between the ages of 20-24 representing nearly a quarter (26.55%) of all births. Young mothers also made up a significant proportion, with over 1,800 having their first child before reaching 20.
However, it’s not just economic challenges that mothers in Campeche face. Official data showed that at least 19,467 women experienced obstetric violence between 2016 and 2021, highlighting the urgent need for protection and support for mothers.
Justice System Falls Short
While some progress has been made in addressing child support determinations, many mothers continue to struggle with debtors who fail to meet their responsibilities. According to the president of the State Superior Court of Justice (TSJE), Manuel Enrique Minet Marrero, around 70% of all cases could be for child support.
The judiciary has implemented various measures to address this issue, including expedited procedures and provisional measures to ensure timely resolution. However, more needs to be done to provide adequate protection and justice for mothers in Campeche who face these challenges daily.
In conclusion, the situation faced by mothers in Campeche is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention from local authorities and institutions. While there have been some steps taken towards addressing child support determinations, much work remains to be done to ensure that mothers receive the justice and protection they deserve. It’s crucial for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and social services to collaborate and develop effective solutions to tackle the complex issues faced by these women.
Recommendations:
1. Implement targeted programs to provide economic support and resources for single mothers in Campeche.
2. Enhance training and capacity building for judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officials to handle cases related to child support determinations and obstetric violence.
3. Develop a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes of inequality and violence that affect mothers in Campeche.
4. Establish partnerships between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities to provide support services for mothers, including counseling, education, and job training.
Ultimately, ensuring justice and protection for mothers in Campeche requires a collective effort from all stakeholders involved. By working together, we can create a more equitable and just society for these women and their families.
Source: Por Esto