Child exploitation rises in Veracruz, Mexico as authorities and NGOs respond

In the historic centre of Córdoba, Veracruz, reports indicate a rise in child begging and street exploitation. Municipal DIF officials, led by Carolina Mendívil, have not carried out effective rescue operations, and police response to a witnessed incident involving a girl aged 8‑10 was minimal.

In Xalapa, Veracruz, the civil association Matraca organized a charitable dinner to raise awareness of child labour. The group said the number of children working in cruise ships, markets and shops has increased by more than 35 % during vacation periods. Matraca currently assists 220 children and their families, reaching about 660 people across Xalapa and neighboring municipalities, many of whom lack official documentation and cannot access social programmes.