Chihuahua electoral inclusivity and parity efforts

The State Electoral Institute (IEE) of Chihuahua has advanced several initiatives regarding inclusivity and gender parity. To improve accessibility for people with disabilities, IEE staff participated in a sensitization program led by the Municipal Government of Chihuahua. The training utilized practical exercises, such as using blindfolds and guide canes, to help employees identify physical and cultural barriers faced by visually impaired voters.

Regarding gender representation, the IEE has moved from a draft proposal to approved gender parity and affirmative action guidelines for the 2026-2027 electoral process. These regulations mandate that political parties nominate women for mayoral presidencies and substitute positions in specific municipalities, including Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Camargo, Janos, and Nonoava. The IEE established three competitiveness blocks across the state’s 67 municipalities to determine the required number of female candidates, stating the measure aims to address historical inequalities.

These guidelines have met significant political opposition. The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) announced plans to challenge the rules before electoral tribunals, arguing they infringe upon the principle of political party self-determination. Similarly, the National Action Party (PAN) criticized the IEE, claiming the institute is exceeding its legal authority by acting as a legislator rather than an electoral body.