Mexico expands 'Centros Libre' women's protection centers

The state government of Puebla reported a 60 percent reduction in femicide cases this year after deploying 50 "Centros Libre" Carmen Serdán facilities. Governor Alejandro Armenta Mier said the integrated model—offering legal, psychological and empowerment services staffed largely by women—has helped the state move from seventh to twelfth place nationally in femicide rates. He added, "Una mujer que salvemos de un ataque sexual o de feminicidio habrá valido la pena el programa."

In Coahuila, officials inaugurated the Centro Libre Piedras Negras, the latest addition to a federal program coordinated with Mexico City, the state and municipal governments. The new centre joins 29 existing sites in the state and will provide counseling, legal aid, vocational training and educational support to women facing violence. Local leaders highlighted the collaborative approach as essential for strengthening community welfare and preventing gender‑based violence.