Migrants in southern Mexico face high rates of sexual violence

A report by the NGO Médicos del Mundo (MDM) reveals that 52% of gender-based violence cases treated in Tapachula, Chiapas, involved sexual assault. The study, titled ‘La Cuerpa que Migra’, analyzed 1,795 cases attended by the organization at Mexico's southern border between 2021 and 2025.

Data shows a rising trend in sexual violence, accounting for 66% of gender-based violence care in 2025, compared to 57% in 2024 and 47% in 2023. MDM medical coordinator Tania Marín noted a shift from violence committed by unknown individuals to increased community violence as migrants spend more time in Tapachula.

A critical issue identified is the delay in medical attention; 92% of sexual assault cases were treated after the 72-hour window, missing the opportunity for emergency contraception or HIV post-exposure prophylaxis. Migrants face significant administrative, linguistic, and cultural barriers, as well as stigma and costs, when attempting to access healthcare services.