Mexico City, April 11, 2026 – As part of the deliberative phase of the consultation on the Mexico City Care System, the local Congress held its third working session, this time focusing on “Caregivers.” These individuals presented their main medical, mobility, inclusion, and economic support needs, which will be considered in the corresponding law.
Caregivers’ Needs Highlighted in Deliberative Session
The meeting was organized by the United Commissions of Inclusion, Social Welfare and Enforceability of Social Rights, and the Gender Equality Commission. Its objective was to gather concerns and proposals from those responsible for caring for minors, the elderly, or people with disabilities.
In the “Nelson Mandela” Hall of the local Congress, Deputy Víctor Gabriel Varela López and Deputies Cecilia Vadillo Obregón and Lizzette Salgado Viramontes agreed on the urgency of addressing the demands of caregivers, who are predominantly women. This, they pointed out, includes the protection of their human rights and the recognition of their daily work.
“This is a reflection of what we have been discussing, of that reality in terms of care; of that burden that women have historically carried and that with this Care System Law we seek to recognize in the first place, redistribute, and reduce the burden of care,” said Vadillo Obregón.
The President of the Gender Equality Commission assured that there has been progress in the theoretical framework of this law, but that the definition of various words such as “care” and “caregivers” continues to be reviewed.
Salgado Viramontes asserted that there is no Care System without caregivers and that this legislative ordinance does not seek to create an institution, but rather to strengthen their rights.
“It is the practice and work of thousands of people who sustain the daily life of this city; who care for the elderly, children, people with disabilities (…). In addition, it is about including the figure of assistance personnel and having it recognized in this law,” emphasized the PAN legislator.
Previous Consultation Phase Informs Legislation
For his part, Deputy Víctor Varela recalled that as part of the construction of the Care System Law, the local Congress carried out a previous consultation phase, in order to elaborate a more complete preliminary opinion.
“When a priority group is affected, for better or worse, a pre-consultation must be carried out (…). These were very extensive sessions where we attended to various sectors that have to do with care. We collected opinions and proposals in different parts of the city,” pointed out the President of the Commission for Inclusion, Social Welfare and Enforceability of Social Rights.
During the more than two hours of the Deliberative Session for “Caregivers,” participants presented their proposals on care, among which the urgency of having economic support stood out, as they are forced to leave their jobs to dedicate their time to caring for a family member.
In this context, they also urged that training be provided to caregivers who attend to family members with a specific illness, as well as emotional assistance given the burden they are subjected to every day.
Likewise, they requested access to public services at appropriate times, such as public transport; recognition of their dedication and commitment to care; the creation of specialized child care centers; and the adaptation of public spaces.
Next Steps for the Care System Law
The insights and proposals gathered during this deliberative session will be crucial in shaping the final version of the Mexico City Care System Law. The legislative body aims to create a comprehensive framework that not only recognizes the vital role of caregivers but also provides them with the necessary support and protection.
The emphasis on economic assistance reflects the significant financial strain many caregivers face, often sacrificing their own careers to provide care. The call for specialized training and emotional support highlights the demanding nature of their work and the need for resources to maintain their well-being.
Furthermore, the requests for improved public services, such as accessible transportation and adapted public spaces, underscore the importance of an inclusive urban environment that facilitates the daily lives of caregivers and those they assist. The recognition of their dedication is also a key component, aiming to elevate the societal value of caregiving.
The Mexico City Congress continues its commitment to developing a robust and equitable Care System, ensuring that the voices and experiences of caregivers are at the forefront of legislative efforts.
Source: https://www.congresocdmx.gob.mx/comsoc-realizan-tercera-mesa-deliberativa-sobre-sistema-cuidados-cdmx-7335-1.html
