Honduran Congress approves sweeping reforms to domestic‑violence law

The Honduran National Congress has approved a package of reforms to the Law against Domestic Violence. The changes introduce electronic monitoring devices such as ankle bracelets for convicted aggressors, create a national registry of offenders, and restrict individuals convicted of domestic‑violence offenses from obtaining driver’s licenses, possessing firearms, or holding public office.

Human‑rights defender Hugo Maldonado, president of the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights in Honduras (CODEH), warned that some provisions could conflict with constitutional guarantees, potentially leading to challenges of unconstitutionality. While supporting tougher penalties, he cautioned that measures like banning driver’s licenses might unduly affect the right to work and livelihood.

Lawmakers argue the reforms will make protection orders more enforceable and reduce revictimisation of women who report abuse, aiming to strengthen the justice system’s response to domestic violence.