Femicide 2013 it was reported to have the highest rate of femicide in Colombia. It was reported that there were 144 homicides in Cali, in 2013; this is significantly higher than in other major Colombian cities. Macho culture has been a key factor to the rapid escalation of femicide in Latin America in general. Inequality of power between men and women, as well as the lack of resources provided for women, prevent them from seeking help and safety. On July 6, 2015, Colombia passed a new law stating femicide is a legally defined crime with 20 to 50 years' jail time.
Femicide the murder of females separately from overall homicide is questioned. Opponents argue that since over 80% of all murder victims are men, the term places too much emphasis on the less prevalent murder of females. In addition, the study of femicide is a social challenge. An alternative term offered is gendercide, which is more ambivalent and inclusive. However, some feminists argue that the term "gendercide" perpetuates the taboo of the subject of the murder of females. Feminists also argue that the motives for femicide are vastly different than those for androcide. Instead of centering in street violence, much of femicide