Cases of women in prison increase by almost 50% since 2005: Belisario Domínguez Institute of the Senate; more than half remain without a sentence

Women in Mexican prisons have increased by nearly 50% over the past two decades, a stark contrast to the much smaller rise in the male prison population. An analysis by the Belisario Domínguez Institute (IBD) of the Senate revealed that between 2005 and 2025, the number of women deprived of liberty (MPL) grew by 48%, while the number of men in prison increased by only 11.6%.

The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights attributes this surge to a confluence of factors. Vulnerable women, facing reduced economic and educational prospects and persistent poverty, are at a higher risk of being exploited for criminal activities. Drug consumption is also a significant factor, with many MPLs struggling with problematic substance use that can lead them into illicit activities.

Furthermore, many women become involved in crime due to coercion, with threats directed at them or their families. The IBD study highlights that a substantial portion of incarcerated women are co-accused in crimes committed by their partners, such as drug trafficking or kidnapping, often receiving severe sentences. This is particularly concerning as nine out of 10 women had no prior criminal record before their current incarceration.

Regarding their legal status, national data from 2025 indicates that 50.4% of women in prison were awaiting sentencing, while 49.6% had already been sentenced. This situation is reversed for men, where 61% have been sentenced and only 39% are awaiting trial. The primary offenses for which women were imprisoned include illegal drug possession (20.7%), business robbery (11.6%), and illegal drug trade (10.3%).