Expanding Abortion Access for Migrant Women in Latin America
millions of people journey across Latin America each year, seeking safety and opportunity. Half of these migrants are women, many facing immense challenges, including sexual violence and limited access to healthcare. Mexico, a major transit point, sees a notable influx, with an estimated 45,000 women, primarily from Central America, arriving at its southern border annually.
The arduous journey these women undertake often leaves them vulnerable and in need of urgent sexual and reproductive healthcare. Fear of deportation further complicates matters, creating a significant barrier to accessing essential services. This critical situation has prompted innovative solutions to ensure these women recieve the care they desperately need.
Ipas latin America and the Caribbean, in collaboration with various federal, state, and local organizations, is leading the charge.Their extensive approach includes training healthcare workers,providing crucial health education to migrants,and developing vital resources to connect women with necessary services.
A key element of this initiative is “te Acompaño,” the first Spanish-language chatbot designed specifically for migrants. This innovative tool offers reliable facts on sexual violence, reproductive rights, abortion access, and local support services. As Saraí Gomez, a Honduran migrant who fled gang violence, explains, “Whenever one needs support, one can access it.”
The work of Ipas and its partners highlights the urgent need to address the unique healthcare challenges faced by migrant women. By providing access to vital services and information, they are empowering these women to navigate their journeys with greater safety and dignity. This initiative serves as a model for addressing similar challenges faced by vulnerable populations worldwide.
Learn more about Ipas’s work at https://www.ipas.org/our-work/abortion-in-crisis-settings/expanding-abortion-access-along-key-migration-routes/
