Mexico writes an important page in the history of animal protection. After the approval of the Chamber of Deputies, the Senate also voted in favor of a constitutional reform which inserts animals into the Constitution for the first timeestablishing the duty to protect and safeguard them. A historic decision, welcomed with enthusiasm by animal rights associations and all those who fight for animal rights.
This victory is the fruit of years of campaigns and mobilizations by civil society, which has been clamoring for a more solid legal framework for the protection of animals. The campaign “Animals for the Constitution” has collected over 140 thousand signatures and promoted thousands of actions online and in person to raise public awareness and put pressure on the legislative power.
“The Mexican Congress has responded positively to a request from Mexican society that is increasingly interested and involved in animal protection,” he said Dulce Ramírezdirector of Animal Equality Mexico. “What we are experiencing is a historical fact but also an indicator of a cultural change in our relationship with all animals.”
What changes with the reform?
The constitutional reform introduces significant changes to three articles:
Furthermore, Congress will have 180 days to enact the General Welfare Actthe care and protection of animals, taking into account their nature and specific characteristics.
Next steps
The constitutional reform, after approval by the House and Senate, will have to be submitted to the vote of the 32 local Congresses of the country. At least 17 legislatures will have to approve it for it to go into effect.
“The political will and agreements reached in the Senate in favor of constitutional reforms generate a panorama of certainty to start work on the creation of the General Law on the Protection and Welfare of Animals,” added Dulce Ramírez. “The next step after this important legislative progress is to move forward with the creation of public policies necessary for the full recognition of animal life. This is just the beginning, and at Animal Equality we will be present in every process and space, fighting tirelessly for its defense.”
An example to follow
Mexico stands as a virtuous example in animal protection, demonstrating a growing sensitivity towards their well-being. This constitutional reform represents a significant step forward towards a more just and compassionate society, in which animals are no longer considered objects but sentient beings worthy of respect and protection.
