The new care economy: why is there talk of a national care system in Mexico

The conversation about the national care system in Mexico It has gained unprecedented relevance in the country's political and social landscape.

It is no longer a marginal issue; it has become a central focus of the discussion on social justice and economic development.

This surge is not accidental, but rather a response to profound demographic and labor changes that are redefining the value of unpaid work.

The need for an institutional framework to support caregiving is imperative. Historically, these responsibilities have fallen disproportionately on women and families.

Care work is, in essence, the invisible engine that allows the formal economy to function fully. Without it, participation in the labor market is severely limited.

We are witnessing a conceptual transformation: care is shifting from being a private burden to a state and social responsibilityRecognizing this is the first step towards equality.

What Does the Care Economy Entail Today?

The care economy encompasses all activities essential to people's physical and emotional well-being, from childcare and eldercare to managing household chores.

These activities are not included in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the same way as other services. However, their economic value is undeniable.

Viewing care as a social investment is crucial to understanding the current debate. It is the foundation for a productive and healthy society.

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Population aging and the increasing participation of women in paid work have strained the traditional model. This model is no longer sustainable in Mexico in 2025.

Reality demands structural solutions that offer dignified alternatives. Solutions that benefit all citizens.

A national care system in Mexico It seeks to formalize and redistribute these responsibilities. This means sharing the burden among the state, the market, the community, and households.

How does the recognition of care work impact gender inequality?

The provision of care has been a persistent barrier to equal opportunities. Women dedicate a significantly larger portion of their time to these tasks.

This dedication limits their opportunities for professional development and financial independence. It is a form of structural inequality.

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By institutionalizing care work, women gain time and productive capacity. This facilitates more equitable and fulfilling participation in the workforce.

It allows women's talent and experience to be integrated without the restrictions imposed by the double burden of work and family responsibilities. It is an act of economic justice.

The goal is to move from a model that penalizes caregivers to one that recognizes and supports them. Gender equality is inseparable from the right to care.

What are the Key Components of a Comprehensive Care System?

A robust system must be multidimensional, addressing diverse needs throughout the life cycle. It is not limited to daycare centers and nursing homes.

It must include quality early childhood services and support for people with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Training and professional development for caregivers is essential.

Another essential component is adequate infrastructure, including community centers and safe spaces. Universal and transferable parental leave is also required.

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The model must operate under a human rights approach, ensuring universal access. It should not be only for those who can afford it.

Corporate co-responsibility is a key pillar: encouraging flexible work arrangements and on-site childcare services. It's a mutual benefit for both society and businesses.

Why do we talk about a “New Economy” when referring to Care?

There is talk of a “new economy” because care work is being recognized as a productive sector and a generator of employment. It is not simply an expense.

Investing in care services creates formal jobs and injects money into the economy. It's an economic multiplier.

If a state invests in training 100,000 professional caregivers, they not only provide an essential service, but also become consumers.

They pay taxes and contribute to social security. A historically undervalued job is being given dignity.

The demand for care will continue to grow, so this sector has enormous potential for expansion. It's an investment for the future.

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According to the Satellite Account of Unpaid Household Work (CSTNR)In 2023, the economic value of unpaid care and domestic work in Mexico represented 24.3% of the national GDP.

This underlines its real weight in the economy, being even greater than that of sectors such as the manufacturing industry.

What Challenges Does the Implementation of national care system in Mexico?

The path to full implementation is fraught with obstacles that require dialogue and commitment. The main one is budgetary sufficiency.

Allocating the necessary resources for a system of this magnitude requires sustained political will. It is a decision of prioritization.

Another challenge is inter-institutional coordination, ensuring that the services offered by different agencies are consistent and accessible. Bureaucracy can be a hindrance.

A cultural transformation is also crucial, eradicating the perception that caregiving is a woman's responsibility. Men's shared responsibility must be actively promoted.

How can we visualize the impact of the system on everyday life?

Imagine society as a vast network of roads connecting cities. If the road of care is full of potholes and impassable, traffic either stops or is diverted.

A national care system in Mexico It's like building a modern, efficient highway through that network. It allows the flow of people and talent to move without obstacles.

ANDA single mother, without a national care system in Mexico accessible, she is forced to decline a job promotion.

The salary increase doesn't cover the cost of a private nanny. With this system, you can access a quality, affordable childcare center near your workplace.

This allows him to accept the promotion and improve his quality of life and that of his son.

This social infrastructure not only facilitates paid work but also improves the quality of life for those who need care. It is a broad social benefit.

The difference in hours worked reflects the gap in labor force participation. national care system in Mexico seeks to close this gap.

The current debate forces us to ask ourselves: Is it fair that the most essential contribution to well-being is, at the same time, the most invisible and the least rewarded?

Conclusion: A Decisive Step Towards Holistic Well-being

The promotion of a national care system in Mexico It is more than a social policy. It is an economic development strategy with a gender and human rights perspective.

This represents a paradigm shift that recognizes the intrinsic value of care and its role as a pillar of productivity. Now is the time to build a fairer society.

By investing in the well-being of its citizens, Mexico is investing in its own future. A future where development is not achieved at the cost of personal sacrifice.

Society and the state have a historic opportunity to transform a private burden into a universal right. It is a commitment to balance and equity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between care work and domestic work?

Care work focuses on the direct well-being of individuals (feeding, companionship, education). Domestic work focuses on the upkeep of the home (cleaning, laundry). Both are essential and often performed by the same people, but they have different scopes.

Who are the main beneficiaries of a care system?

The direct beneficiaries are the people who require care (children, elderly people, people with disabilities) and those who provide it (informal and professional caregivers).

Indirectly, the whole of society benefits by improving labor participation, reducing social stress, and promoting gender equality.

Is there currently any legal basis for this system in Mexico?

Yes, the concept has advanced significantly in the legislative arena. There are several initiatives and constitutional reforms that lay the groundwork for recognizing the right to care.

The discussion now focuses on the operational design and budget allocation to ensure its full functionality.

Written by Enrique Updated on December 4, 2025