Spain Reaffirms Commitment to Gender Equality Amidst Global Backlash

In a robust display of dedication to gender equality, the Spanish government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to protecting and advancing women's rights, even as global trends suggest a worrying rollback in these gains.

Renewal of the State Pact Against Gender-Based Violence

On February 10, 2025, Spanish President Pedro Sánchez pledged to "work tirelessly" to renew the State Pact against Gender-Based Violence, a landmark initiative that has been a cornerstone of Spain's efforts to combat gender violence since its inception 20 years ago. This renewal includes 400 new measures aimed at protecting minors, victims of vicarious violence, and combating economic, digital, and sexual violence, as well as trafficking and forced marriages[1].

Progress and Challenges

The Minister for Equality, Ana Redondo, highlighted the significant progress made in the fight against gender violence. The number of women killed by their partners or ex-partners has decreased from 74 in 2003 to 48 in 2024. However, Redondo emphasized that every murder of a woman is a "collective failure" and a challenge to Spain's democracy. The government has implemented the VioGén 2 system to improve the monitoring of gender violence cases and has opened 54 crisis centers operating 24 hours a day[2].

International Women's Day and Ongoing Struggles

On International Women's Day, March 8, 2025, thousands of women took to the streets in cities like Malaga to demand continued protection of women's rights. Feminist groups stressed the importance of promoting equality in care and housework, access to decision-making positions, and the protection of reproductive rights, including the right to abortion. The movement draws inspiration from France, where abortion was recently enshrined as a constitutional right[4].

Constitutional Protection for Abortion

Ana Redondo has expressed support for studying the inclusion of abortion as a constitutional right in Spain, mirroring the recent move in France. This proposal is seen as a way to protect sexual and reproductive rights and women's freedom, although it acknowledges the complexity and need for broad consensus required for such a constitutional reform[3].

Global Context and UN Women's Warning

The global landscape for gender equality is precarious. According to a recent UN Women report, while the world is more gender-equal than ever, progress is fragile and reversible. One in four countries reported a setback in women's rights in 2024, and Europe is not immune to this backlash. UN Women's regional director for Europe and Central Asia, Belén Sanz, warned that legal protections are weakening, and funding for gender equality is shrinking, emphasizing the need for vigilance and sustained action[5].

Spain's Commitment to Equality

Despite these global challenges, Spain remains committed to narrowing gender gaps. The government has implemented measures such as increasing the Interprofessional Minimum Wage, enhancing pensions, and mandating equality plans for companies. These efforts have contributed to a reduction in the pay gap between men and women and an increase in the number of women contributors to the workforce. The Parity Law, passed in 2024, aims to address the representation gap in companies, with 157 companies already holding the equality label[2].

In conclusion, Spain's steadfast commitment to gender equality is a beacon of hope in a world where progress is increasingly under threat. As the country moves forward with renewed vigor to protect women's rights, it serves as a model for other nations to follow in the ongoing struggle for true and lasting equality.