The Mexican Chamber of Deputies has made a significant move by unanimously approving reforms to the Federal Penal Code regarding sexual abuse, marking a critical step in legislative measures against such offenses. The reforms, which received a total of 431 votes, redefine the crime of sexual abuse to include any non-consensual sexual act conducted in public or private, without the intent to penetrate. This change aims to strengthen legal protections for victims and establish clearer definitions of what constitutes sexual abuse, ensuring that more behaviors are classified under this serious offense.

According to the approved bill, sexual abuse now encompasses actions that force a victim to witness or perform sexual acts, as well as coercing them to expose their bodies. The legal framework has been designed to include a range of behaviors, from physical touching to explicit sexual representations, which are crucial for the protection of individuals from various forms of sexual violence. Importantly, the legislation emphasizes that consent cannot be considered valid when there is coercion or manipulation involved, reinforcing the importance of voluntary agreement in sexual interactions.

Following the approval in the Chamber of Deputies, the decree has been forwarded to the Executive for publication and immediate implementation. This legislative change comes at a time when discussions around sexual violence and the rights of victims are gaining traction in Mexico, reflecting broader societal demands for justice and effective legal recourse. The increase in penalties—from three to seven years of imprisonment and financial penalties based on daily UMA values—aims to deter potential offenders and underscores the government's commitment to tackling the issue of sexual abuse more robustly, marking a historical development in the legal landscape concerning women's rights and safety in Mexico.