Every child and adolescent has the right to live within a family — in an environment of care, affection, understanding, and free from violence — that allows them to develop fully and reach their greatest potential.
The emotional bonds formed between children and their parents, guardians, or other responsible caregivers are essential to their personal growth and well-being. These relationships give them the foundation to build their future and achieve their life goals in a safe and nurturing environment.
In Mexico, the General Law on the Rights of Children and Adolescents (LGDNNA) establishes and protects these fundamental rights, including the right to live in a family environment, which encompasses the following principles:
Right to remain within their family:
Children and adolescents have the right to live with their parents or relatives and not be separated from them against their will, except in cases where their safety or integrity is at serious risk.
A lack of financial resources cannot be used as grounds to separate a child from their family.
Right to maintain personal relationships with both parents:
Even in cases of separation or divorce, children have the right to maintain direct and regular contact with both parents, unless a judicial authority determines that such contact could harm their well-being or safety — for example, in cases involving violence or abuse.
Right to maintain contact with family members deprived of liberty:
Children also have the right to maintain a relationship with relatives who are incarcerated. In particular, infants have the right to remain with their mothers in prison facilities until the age of three.
These principles reflect Mexico’s commitment to ensuring that every child grows up in an environment of stability, love, and respect — where family unity is preserved and protected above all else.