Criticism Mounts Over Spanish Government's Handling of Women's Safety and Abortion Access

Intensifying political criticism has spotlighted the Spanish government's failures regarding policies on women's safety and abortion access. Galician senator Nidia Arévalo condemned Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's administration for pursuing a "showcase policy" that leaves women vulnerable to their aggressors. During a parliamentary session, Arévalo highlighted a disturbing rise in sexual assault reports, which doubled under Sánchez's tenure, reaching 18,624 in 2024 alone. She attributed this surge not merely to increased reporting but to profound structural shortcomings in prevention, protection, and judicial measures. Arévalo also criticized the Cometa anti-violence wristband system for its mismanagement and loss of crucial judicial data, concluding that the government has fostered an environment of impunity and insecurity for victims (ID 110761).

Meanwhile, in Barcelona, the Hospital de Sant Pau, partially associated with the Catholic Church, has ceased voluntary abortion services amid pressure from religious groups. This cessation marks a significant challenge for women's reproductive rights as the hospital disappeared from the Ministry of Health's list of abortion providers in 2024, despite previous inclusion. Feminist organizations and the political party Barcelona en Comú have mobilized to counteract these restrictions by proposing a city council resolution demanding that the hospital perform abortions without filtration through referrals. The resolution, supported by multiple parties including Junts, PSC, and ERC, urges monitoring of the hospital's compliance and advocates incorporation of abortion rights into the Catalan Statute. Gemma Tarafa from Barcelona en Comú emphasized that conscientious objection cannot be used collectively to deny women's rights and that public healthcare must guarantee access (ID 110758).

These developments collectively underscore a critical juncture in Spain's approach to women's rights and safety, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with governmental response and policies. The debates call for urgent accountability and reforms as women face increasing violence and diminished access to essential healthcare services.