Recent claims circulating on social media have falsely stated that Mexico has lowered its age of sexual consent to 12. This misinformation, amplified by conservative commentators like Ann Coulter, is inaccurate and requires clarification. For those seeking accurate legal information, especially within the LGBTQ+ community and those traveling to or living in Mexico, understanding the correct age of consent is crucial.
What is the Actual Age of Consent in Mexico?
Contrary to these false reports, Mexico’s age of consent is not 12. In fact, Mexican law explicitly sets the age of consent at 15 years old. This has been the law since 2012 when Mexico raised the age from 12 to 15. This change reflects a commitment to protecting minors and aligns with international standards for child protection.
According to the current Mexican penal code, any sexual act with a person under the age of 15 is legally considered rape. This offense carries a severe penalty, with prison sentences ranging from eight to 30 years, and even longer if violence is involved. The most recent updates to the penal code, dated June 21, 2018, confirm that there have been no subsequent legislative changes to lower the age of consent.
Debunking the Misinformation
The source of this misinformation appears to stem from a tweet by Ann Coulter, who cited a story from Your News Wire. This story, in turn, linked to an outdated Wikipedia page referencing an old version of the Mexican penal code archived on the Wayback Machine. This highlights the danger of relying on unverified sources and outdated information, especially on sensitive legal matters.
It is important to note that the claim also falsely suggested that the European Parliament was considering lowering the age of consent within the European Union. This is also incorrect, as the European Union does not have the authority to dictate the age of consent for its member states; this remains a national matter for each country to decide.
Why Accurate Information Matters
Spreading false information about the age of consent can have serious consequences. For individuals, especially young people and those navigating legal frameworks in different countries, accurate understanding of the law is paramount. For the LGBTQ+ community and international visitors to Mexico, knowing the legal age of consent is essential for ensuring safety and compliance with the law.
It’s vital to rely on credible sources and official legal documents when seeking information about laws, especially those related to sexual conduct and the protection of minors. Misinformation can lead to confusion, risk, and even legal repercussions.
Conclusion
The Age Of Consent In Mexico is firmly established at 15 years old. Claims suggesting it has been lowered to 12 are demonstrably false and based on outdated or unreliable sources. It is crucial to rely on verified information from reputable sources like official government websites and established news organizations to understand Mexican law accurately. For anyone seeking legal clarity on this or any other matter in Mexico, consulting official legal resources or seeking advice from legal professionals in Mexico is always recommended.
