Mexico's President Sheinbaum Calls for Stronger Harassment Laws After Assault
President Claudia Sheinbaum was assaulted on Tuesday while greeting supporters near the presidential palace in Mexico City. The incident occurred when an intoxicated man approached her during a public walk, placed his arm around her shoulder, and inappropriately touched her before attempting to kiss her. Security personnel intervened quickly and detained the attacker.
Following the assault, Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, urged lawmakers on Wednesday, November 5, to strengthen national laws and classify sexual harassment as a criminal offense across the entire country. Her call for reform highlighted ongoing concerns about women's safety in Mexico.
“This person approached, completely intoxicated (...) it wasn't until I saw the videos later that I realized what had really happened,” Sheinbaum said Wednesday.
The suspect was subsequently arrested, and the president’s office confirmed to Agence France-Presse (AFP) that he has been charged with harassment, a crime already recognized in Mexico City and roughly 20 other states.
Author’s Summary
After being harassed in public, President Claudia Sheinbaum demanded national legislation to criminalize sexual harassment, underscoring persistent threats to women’s safety in Mexico.