Cancún Drops HIV Test Requirement for Marriage

Cancún, Mexico — In a significant advancement for human rights in Cancún, civil society groups, in coordination with the Benito Juárez municipal government, have successfully eliminated the requirement for an HIV test as a prerequisite for marriage at the Civil Registry.

A Step Toward Equality and Privacy

Jorge Chame, a member of the Network for Health and Diversity, stated that this measure addresses concerns that the requirement was discriminatory, stigmatizing individuals and violating their right to privacy. The removal of the HIV test as a marriage condition marks an important milestone in promoting equality and non-discrimination in the city.

Civil organizations, which had advocated for this change for years, emphasized the importance of eradicating practices that perpetuate prejudice and restrict access to fundamental rights. This achievement reflects a collaborative effort between civil society and local authorities to build a more inclusive community.

Government Cooperation Accelerates Change

The current municipal administration demonstrated a notable willingness to address this citizen-led demand. The Benito Juárez government’s cooperation expedited the review and removal of the requirement, responding to concerns raised by advocacy groups pushing for updated Civil Registry procedures aligned with principles of equity and human rights.

This change not only benefits couples seeking to formalize their unions in Cancún but also sends a clear message about the city’s commitment to inclusion and equality. Civil society groups celebrated the decision and urged continued efforts to eliminate discriminatory practices in public services, encouraging citizens to support initiatives that strengthen Cancún’s social fabric.