Mexican civil servants must avoid kissing, hugging or complimenting their colleagues on their appearance, according to a new code of ethics in the public service intended to combat sexual harassment.
This new regulation, made public on Tuesday in the Official Journal, invites public officials to “avoid behavior” with “physical contact of a suggestive or sexual nature, such as touching, hugging, kissing, groping”.
Do not offer suggestive gifts
The text, which will come into effect on Wednesday, also asks to avoid “comments, teasing, compliments or jokes with a sexual connotation towards another person concerning their appearance or their anatomy”. One week before Saint Valentine’s Day, it is also requested not to give gifts suggesting sexual interest.
Violators of the new code of ethics will be punished in accordance with Mexican laws on administrative responsibilities.
The new regulations come as feminist movements across Latin America mobilize against sexual harassment and violence against women.