### Rise in Femicides in Baja California in 2024
In the first half of 2024, Baja California has recorded 18 femicides, placing it above the national average, according to Miriam Ayón Castro, Vice President of the Network of United Women for Baja California.
Ayón Castro mentioned that the number might double by the year’s end, surpassing the 2023 count of 20 cases. This alarming trend has placed Baja California in the eighth position nationwide for the number of femicide investigations, which are part of the 401 cases registered across the country, as reported by the Executive Secretariat of the National Public Security System.
In 2023, the State Attorney General’s Office acknowledged that they conducted investigations into intentional homicides of women following gender perspective protocols as established by the Supreme Court of Justice of the Nation. However, this has not affected the rise in numbers. Instead, there has been an increase in violence against women, including harassment and sexual abuse, according to Ayón Castro.
Fernando Sánchez González, Secretary of Security and Citizen Protection of Tijuana, recently stated that 14% of emergency calls are related to domestic violence. This increase in domestic violence correlates with a rise in serious injuries and, consequently, femicides.
Further improvements are still needed, such as implementing risk assessments from the moment a domestic violence report is received. “Currently, women who report severe injuries are investigated for injuries rather than attempted femicide,” Ayón Castro concluded.
### Additional News on Femicides and Gender Violence in Mexico
#### New Specialized Courts for Domestic Violence in Tijuana
In an effort to combat the rising cases of femicide and domestic violence, Tijuana will establish two specialized courts for domestic violence against women. This step is seen as a critical measure to address and reduce the incidence of these crimes.
#### Family Violence Calls on the Rise
Reports indicate that domestic violence calls have significantly increased in Tijuana, representing 14% of all emergency calls. This surge highlights the urgent need for effective interventions and support systems for victims.
#### Gender Violence Statistics in Mexico
According to national statistics, Baja California’s 18 reported femicides in the first quarter are part of 401 cases recorded nationwide. This figure underscores the pervasive issue of gender violence in the country, necessitating coordinated efforts to combat it.
#### Response from Authorities
The authorities have stated that they are investigating homicides following gender perspective protocols. However, despite these efforts, the numbers continue to rise. There is a consensus that more needs to be done to address underlying issues contributing to such violence.
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