Slow Growth in Quintana Roo’s Safe Women Network

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The "Puntos Coral-Mujeres Seguras" (Coral Points-Safe Women) initiative, aimed at creating a network of citizen awareness and protection for girls, adolescents, and women who are victims of any form of violence, has reported only a 20% advancement in its implementation.

A Network for Protection and Support

The program seeks to establish designated safe spaces in convenience stores, supermarkets, and local businesses where victims can seek assistance. Esther Burgos Jiménez, head of the Secretariat for Women (Semujeres), emphasized that these establishments, spread across Quintana Roo’s 11 municipalities, are critical in providing aid to women in dangerous situations. Staff at these locations are being trained to offer appropriate support.

Despite the program’s launch last year, Burgos acknowledged that progress has been slower than anticipated. Of the 581 planned Coral Points, only about 20% have been activated so far.

Challenges in Implementation

Burgos explained that the training process is time-consuming, as educating personnel on handling cases of violence requires thorough preparation. "We began collaborating with Oxxo, 7-Eleven, the Business Coordinating Council, and the Hotel Association. Now we’re also incorporating local businesses, inviting them to join this awareness effort. We’re at roughly 20% completion in training, but the process isn’t quick. We’re moving forward and hope more businesses will participate," she said.

Once trained, participating establishments receive a distinctive logo identifying them as safe spaces where victims can seek help or contact authorities. To date, no cases requiring intervention have been reported through the network.

Strategic Placement and Safety Measures

The 581 Coral Points will be strategically located in areas with high rates of domestic and gender-based violence. Clear signage with the program’s logo will mark these locations for easy identification.

Regarding safety protocols, Burgos noted that strategies are being developed to protect victims, employees, and customers during emergencies. "Some locations have panic buttons that automatically alert authorities without needing to call 911. Other measures will also be implemented to ensure the safety of everyone involved," she added.

Future Expansion Plans

Looking ahead, the program aims to expand into rural Mayan communities by partnering with grocery stores, self-service shops, schools, and communal land offices to serve as additional access points for assistance.

The initiative remains a key effort in Quintana Roo’s broader strategy to combat violence against women and improve safety across the state.